Health - Wellness
Eating Lots Of Chicken Has An Unexpected Effect On Your Gut
By JENNIFER ANANDANAYAGAM
A healthier alternative to processed and red meats is chicken. It's a good source of protein, which is crucial for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, skin, and hair.
Chicken also contains tryptophan, an amino acid that leads to higher production of serotonin. Also known as the 'feel-good' hormone, serotonin improves mood and gut health.
A 2021 International Journal of Molecular Sciences study revealed that as people age, they need tryptophan to fight inflammation and keep their gut microbiome healthy.
It also found that low tryptophan levels were linked with lower levels of Mucispirillum and Blautia — gut-friendly bacteria that are low in people with inflammatory bowel diseases.
Experts recommend eating skinless chicken, ideally chicken breast, as part of a balanced diet. Pairing the chicken with other gut-friendly foods can improve gut health.