Move over kale and quinoa – it’s time to make space in your pantry for burgers! For years we’ve been subscribing to the belief that healthy eating means sacrificing flavor, but now burgers are stepping into the limelight. Packed with protein and essential vitamins and minerals, this traditional favorite has finally been validated as a part of a balanced diet. So what makes burgers such an ideal meal? Read on to discover why they’re fast becoming known as the new superfood!
To start, burgers are a great source of protein. Eating enough protein can help ensure good health and provide the body with the nutrients it needs to build and repair tissue. Burgers are an especially great source of protein because they contain beef, which is one of the best sources of animal-based protein available. A single patty provides between 15-20 grams of protein and when combined with a whole wheat bun, that amount is even higher. Furthermore, burgers also contain other proteins such as buns, cheese and mayonnaise that all contribute to a healthy balanced diet.
Burgers also provide essential vitamins and minerals like iron and zinc which help promote healthy bones, teeth and skin. They’re also a good source of B vitamins such as folate, thiamin and niacin which play an important role in metabolism and cell development. Plus, they contain omega-3 fatty acids which can help reduce inflammation in the body, lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health!
Finally, burgers can be a good choice for those on restricted diets. Whether you’re gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian there’s sure to be an option that fits your dietary needs. For example, veggie patties are made with ingredients like beans and vegetables which offer all the same nutritional benefits without any animal products. In addition, gluten-free burgers are created with a gluten-free bun and ingredients. This means the burger patties have no wheat, rye, or barley added to them. Gluten-free buns are made from other grains such as millet, buckwheat, quinoa, teff or oats to name just a few. These alternative grain options provide essential nutrients that regular buns cannot supply.
In terms of the healthy amount of burgers you can consume, it still depends on sensible portion sizes and healthy toppings. However, generally, if you are active and have a healthy body mass index (BMI), you can enjoy a few burgers per week. If you are more sedentary or have a higher BMI, it is recommended to limit yourself to one burger per week. When choosing a burger, make sure to select one that is made from lean cuts of beef or turkey and contains as few preservatives and fillers as possible. Choose a bun with whole grain flour for added fiber and nutrients, and be mindful of the condiments you add – opt for healthier options like avocado or guacamole over unhealthy choices such as mayonnaise or processed cheese.
So there you have it – burgers are officially the new superfood! So what are you waiting for? Grab a burger today at The Burger Shack and give your health a much-deserved boost!