As we mark International Protein Day, it is important to understand this nutrient which is responsible for our muscle growth, tissue repair and several other factors. The recommended dietary allowance to prevent deficiency for an average sedentary adult is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. For example, a person who weighs 165 pounds, or 75 kilograms, should consume 60 grams of protein per day. Among the many sources of protein, chicken and turkey are among the most popular, often featured in meals worldwide. But which of them has a higher protein content?

Protein in white meat, found primarily in the breasts and wings of poultry, contains less myoglobin—the protein responsible for the reddish-brown hue in darker cuts of meat. Because of this, white meat is generally leaner and lighter in colour. Now in both chicken and turkey, it is their breasts which is consumed more. In comparison, 1 ounce (28 grams) has 9 grams of protein, while turkey has a gram less, that is 8 grams/28 grams of protein.

Wings are te second most consumed part. Notably, the protein content in the wing meat of both is almost identical. Each 1-ounce serving of chicken or turkey wing meat provides approximately 9 grams of protein.

Protein Content In Dark Meat

Dark meat contains more myoglobin, which helps transport and store oxygen in muscles. As a result, darker cuts of poultry, such as legs and thighs, have a slightly different nutritional profile.

Leg Meat Also known as drumsticks, the leg meat of both chicken and turkey provides about 8 grams of protein per ounce.

Thigh meat, located above the leg, offers a slight variation in protein content. Chicken thigh has 7 grams of protein per ounce, while Turkey legs have 8 grams. Although turkey thigh contains slightly more protein than chicken thigh, the difference is minimal.

Which Is The Healthier Option?

Both chicken and turkey provide ample protein and essential nutrients, making them excellent dietary choices. However, when choosing between the two, factors like calorie content, fat levels, vitamins, and minerals should also be considered.

Fat is an important part of a healthy diet, but it is also a more concentrated source of calories than protein. As a general rule, dark meat contains more fat than white meat. Chicken has slightly more fat and calories than turkey in both white and dark meat. If you consume poultry with the skin, the fat and calorie content increases significantly.

Nutrient differences between chicken and turkey are minimal. However, white meat generally contains more niacin and vitamin B6, while dark meat is richer in zinc. If you aim to boost your zinc intake, dark meat may be the better option, whereas white meat can provide a vitamin B boost.

While both chicken and turkey are excellent sources of high-quality protein. Chicken breast contains slightly more protein than turkey breast, while turkey thigh has a small edge over chicken thigh. Ultimately, the healthier choice depends on personal dietary goals.

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The increased risk of diabetes was a condition once primarily considered as adult-only but type 2 diabetes is now being diagnosed in teenagers. As reported by the National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2020, more than 210,000 children and teenagers under the age of 20 in the United States have diagnosed diabetes. Although type 1 diabetes continues to accounts majority of such instances, the increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes in adolescents is a cause for concern and an indicator of an urgent public health emergency.

The surge is closely linked to lifestyle habits, especially unhealthy eating habits and physical inactivity. As Wellness & Nutrition Consultant Sheela Krishnaswamy puts it, "Once known as 'adult-onset diabetes,' type 2 diabetes now affects younger age groups." The phenomenon is not limited to one region, but global, with the International Diabetes Federation estimating that 1.1 million children and youth between the ages of 14–19 years live with diabetes.

What Are The Different Types of Diabetes Affecting Teenagers?

Type 1 diabetes, or juvenile diabetes, is an autoimmune disease in which the pancreas does not produce insulin. It usually appears during childhood or adolescence and demands a lifetime of insulin treatment. Type 2 diabetes arises when the body is resistant to insulin or does not produce sufficient amounts. Traditionally observed in adults, Type 2 is increasingly being diagnosed in teenagers—its yearly increase in young people (4.8%) is higher than Type 1 (1.8%), the NIH reports.

Type 2 diabetes, once typical of the adult population, is now increasing more quickly in children. Type 2 diabetes is associated with insulin resistance and usually a consequence of obesity, lack of exercise, and diets rich in sugar and poor in nutrients. The National Institutes of Health states that type 2 diabetes increases annually at a rate of 4.8% in children, compared to 1.8% for type 1 diabetes.

Warning Signs of Diabetes in Teens that Parents Should Know

Early signs of diabetes in teenagers are often subtle and can go unnoticed. Doctors advise parents to look out for the "4 Ts":

• Toilets: Increased urination or new episodes of bedwetting.
• Thirsty: Excessive, unslakable thirst.
• Tired: Unexplained tiredness.
• Thinner: Unexpected, unexplained weight loss.

Other indications can be greater hunger, irritability, blurred vision, and, in Type 1, fruity-smelling breath. Early identification and medical assessment are important to prevent delayed diagnosis and complications.

What Could Be Called The 'Root' Cause Of Teen Diabetes?

The revolution of fast food culture and sweet drinks has revolutionized teen eating habits globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that in 2022, 390 million children and adolescents aged 5–19 were overweight, and 160 million were obese. The global fast-food industry, worth almost $1 trillion, is set to expand even more, to the detriment of poor eating habits.

Teenagers nowadays tend to take in a lot of calories with little nutritional content. Diets high in sugar, processed foods, and absence of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains not only fuel obesity—a direct risk for Type 2 diabetes—but also lead to insulin resistance. Adding insult to injury, screen time has increased dramatically and exercise has decreased dramatically: just one in seven children worldwide receives adequate exercise, screen time, and sleep recommendations.

Sheela Krishnaswamy further states, "Even with these striking statistics, type 2 diabetes may go undiagnosed. Young people tend to believe they are not in danger, which can lead to delayed diagnoses."

A 2022 report from WHO stated that 390 million children and adolescents in the age group of 5–19 years were overweight, and 160 million had obesity. This is amplified by a flourishing fast food industry and screen addiction. A study in 33 countries found that fewer than one in seven children achieve world standards of physical activity, screen use, and sleeping patterns.

How Lifestyle Changes and Nutrition Fixes Can Help Curb Teen Diabetes?

Amid the dire trends, new research holds promise: basic, targeted nutrition interventions can potentially reverse prediabetes in young people. A new study published by the National Diabetes, Obesity, and Cholesterol Foundation (NDOC) discovered that eating a serving of almonds before major meals enhanced blood sugar management among Asian Indian participants with prediabetes and overweight/obesity. Astoundingly, after three months, almost a quarter of participants returned to normal, non-prediabetic blood sugar levels.

Other research corroborates the evidence. In a Mumbai randomized controlled trial involving adolescents and young adults, daily almond intake lowered HbA1c, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol markedly in individuals at risk of diabetes. Almonds' low glycemic index, fiber richness, and nutrient-dense composition—magnesium, vitamin E, and heart-healthy fats—are reasons why almonds are well-suited to manage blood sugar.

Recent studies highlight the therapeutic role of almonds in managing blood sugar and lowering diabetes risk. The National Diabetes, Obesity, and Cholesterol Foundation (NDOC) discovered that eating a handful of almonds before meals enhanced blood sugar control in overweight Asian Indians with prediabetes. Within three months, close to a quarter of the group resumed normal blood sugar control.

In a second randomized controlled trial in Mumbai, teens and young adults 16–25 years old ate 56 grams of almonds per day for 90 days. Outcomes indicated substantial decreases in HbA1c, LDL, and total cholesterol levels compared to those who ate a cereal-pulse-based snack. The low glycemic index and heart-healthy fats of almonds make them an excellent addition to prediabetes diet.

Simple Lifestyle Fixes That Can Help

Parents can take action to lower diabetes risk in their kids:

1. Nutrition Overhaul

Restrict sugary drinks and processed foods. Add nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Add almonds and other nutritious snacks to regular meals. A 28g almond serving contains 4g of fiber and 15 nutrients like magnesium and vitamin E.

2. Make Exercise a Habit

For teens, encourage a minimum of 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Team sports, dance lessons, walking, or biking are great choices.

3. Cut Back on Screen Time

Set a limit for screen-based recreational time to two hours per day. Support active hobbies that involve movement and interaction with other people.

4. Be a Role Model

Healthy habits start at home. Parents who maintain an active lifestyle and balanced diet are more likely to inspire their teens to follow suit.

The rise of diabetes among children is not only a health problem—it's an challenge that mirrors bigger changes in technology, culture, and food systems. The interaction between heredity, environment, and living style is complicated, but the evidence is unequivocal: prevention is attainable, and food is a potent ally. As Krishnaswamy emphasizes, "Regular screenings are a must. Youth should also emphasize modifiable risk factors like diet and exercise to keep a healthy body weight."

When it comes to adding fats to our diet, many people are reluctant, believing all kinds of oils and butter must be avoided for health reasons. However, that is not true, oils also have health benefits for us, we just have to pick the right ones. During breakfast many people opt for butter toast or fresh pancakes topped off with a cube of butter. While these breakfast staples are tasty, making a simple change could help us slash the risk of cancer.

Why Make the Switch?

The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, looked at over 221,000 adults. It found that eating more butter was linked to a higher risk of death overall and from cancer. On the flip side, consuming more plant-based oils was associated with a lower risk of death from all causes, cancer, and heart disease. Researchers specifically highlighted olive, soybean, and canola oils as beneficial choices.

Over a 33-year period, the study recorded about 51,000 deaths, including over 12,000 from cancer and 11,000 from heart disease.

Numbers Speak for Themselves

The study's findings are compelling:

• High butter intake was linked to a 15% higher risk of death compared to low intake.
• High plant-based oil intake was linked to a 16% lower risk of death.
• Specifically, eating more canola, soybean, and olive oil was individually tied to a lower risk of death.

For every 5 grams of butter swapped daily:

• Using canola oil was linked to a 15% lower risk of death.
• Using soybean oil was linked to a 6% lower risk of death.
• Using olive oil was linked to an 8% lower risk of death.

Additionally, for every extra 10 grams of plant-based oils consumed daily, there was an 11% lower risk of cancer death and a 6% lower risk of heart disease death. Replacing just 10 grams of butter a day with plant-based oil was estimated to lower the overall death risk and cancer risk by 17%. The study concluded that swapping butter for plant-based oils can offer "substantial benefits for preventing premature deaths."

Healthy Plant Based Oils To Try

According to the Heart Organization, swapping out "bad" fats for "good" ones is a smart move for your heart's health. The "bad" fats are mainly saturated and trans fats, while the "good" ones are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. An easy way to do this is by choosing non-tropical vegetable oils for cooking and preparing your meals. These liquid oils are much healthier options compared to solid fats like butter

One thing to keep in mind is that when you're at the grocery store looking for healthy oils, aim for those with less than 4 grams of saturated fat per tablespoon. Also, always check the label to make sure they don't contain partially hydrogenated oils or trans fats.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a kitchen favorite worldwide because it's so flexible and has a medium smoke point (around 350°F), suitable for many common recipes, including baking. This versatile oil boasts healthy fats, like oleic acid, which may reduce inflammation and support heart health, making it a smart everyday choice.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is excellent for high-heat cooking such as deep frying, thanks to its very high smoke point (around 520°F). It offers a neutral taste and is packed with heart-healthy fats, similar to olive oil. Some studies suggest it can help lower bad cholesterol and support liver health.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil has a medium-high smoke point (about 410°F) and a pleasant, nutty flavor, making it great for sautéing and general cooking. It's rich in antioxidants that may protect your brain and help manage blood sugar levels, contributing to overall well-being. Remember, toasted sesame oil is best for flavor, not high-heat cooking.

Safflower Oil

Safflower oil boasts a high smoke point (around 510°F), making it ideal for frying and high-heat cooking. It's low in saturated fat and high in beneficial unsaturated fats, particularly high oleic varieties. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease, making it a healthy and versatile option for your kitchen.

The internet is never out of trend, and for today, we have the trend of the viral Cortisol Cocktail. This one claims to actually help you with stress.

Not that we need to prove people that we are all experiencing a collective burnout that is making the Cortisol Cocktail trend, but just in case one needed to know, as per the Censis-Eudaimon Report, 31.8% of people feel close to burnout due to work stress.

Many reports, including the data from Mental Health Foundation that has published the stress statistics have also noted that more people are stressed than ever. In fact, we are more stressed than we look like. So it kind of makes sense when you see social media feed filled with hacks to bust your stress.

So, let's dive deep into this viral drink.

What Is A Cortisol Cocktail?

It is also known as the Adrenal Cocktail. It is a drink that has orange juice, coconut water, and salt as the main ingredient, among other ingredients. This claims to boost your energy, ease your stress, and also promote weight loss.

Through orange juice, you can get your vitamin C levels checked, coconut water provides you potassium, and salt is for sodium.

As per WebMD who spoke to Theodore C. Friedman, MD, PhD, professor of medicine at the UCLA School of Medicine and chief of the division of endocrinology, molecular medicine and metabolism at Charles R. Drew University, the adrenal glands are located right below our kidneys. They are responsible for producing more than 50 hormones, which also includes 'stress' hormones or cortisol and aldosterone, which maintains body's sodium balance. Thus this viral drink can boost the levels of sodium and help you energize your worn-out glands.

The Recipe To Release Your Stress

200 ml of coconut water

½ squeezed lemon

50 ml of orange juice

1 teaspoon of magnesium powder

¼ teaspoon fine salt

Sparkling water to taste

Why Are These Ingredients Important?

Coconut Water - Potassium

An estimated amount of 98% of potassium in your body is used and found in your cells. Once potassium is in your body, it works like an electrolyte and when it dissolves in water, it becomes positive or negative ions that can conduct electricity. Potassium ions carry positive charge and it helps to maintain fluid balance, sends nerve signals and regulates muscle contractions.

It is not an unknown fact that stress induces heart attack, panic attacks, and impacts cardiovascular health. This is where potassium does wonder. It helps lowering blood pressure, reduces water retention, and protects one against stroke. Cortisol release too can affect your electrolyte balance, and potassium can thus help balance it.

Orange Juice or Lemon - Vitamin C

Studies, including a 2020 study published in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, titled The Role of Vitamin C in Stress-related Disorders, notes that vitamin C deficiency is widely associated with stress-related diseases. The ascorbic acid supplementation that is produced in vitamin C can work as antidepressant and enhance the mood.

Salt - Sodium

Too much of salt can in fact increase your stress and anxiety levels. A 2023 study published in Oxford Journals of Chemical Senses notes that licking of salt is associated with depression, stress, and anxiety. However, a pinch of it can help maintain the adrenal glands, as mentioned above.

Research from the University of Haifa published in the science journal Appetite has confirmed the relationship between salt and stress in humans. Researchers found an inverse correlation between salt and depression/stress, especially in women. In essence, the body is self-regulating to prevent stress and depression by making us crave salt.