According to traditional medicine, chicken gizzards are a nutritious delicacy with a host of health benefits. The old adage, “one chicken gizzard is equal to three medicinal herbs,” highlights the potential advantages of consuming this unique poultry part. The gizzard is, in fact, the stomach of the chicken, and it is packed with protein and amino acids, making it a nutritional powerhouse.
Traditional medicine practitioners believe that chicken gizzards can improve digestion, reduce indigestion, strengthen the stomach, and even help prevent anemia. Gizzards are rich in iron, especially heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body. Consuming gizzards can help regulate iron levels and prevent iron deficiency anemia. Additionally, gizzards are a great source of vitamin A, which is known to improve vision and reduce eye strain.
**Note:** While chicken gizzards are delicious and versatile, it’s important to remember that they are the stomach of the chicken and can harbor bacteria and viruses. Therefore, proper cleaning and thorough cooking are essential. To clean a gizzard, remove any feces, scrape it with a knife, and then rub it with salt and rinse thoroughly. Always cook gizzards thoroughly before consumption. Due to their high nutritional content, it’s best not to overeat them, and individuals with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or gout should avoid them.
## Tim gà: A Hearty and Healthy Treat
Chicken Heart: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Chicken hearts are a unique and valuable part of the chicken, offering a range of health benefits. In traditional medicine, chicken hearts are believed to tonify the blood, enhance circulation, and support the treatment of anemia, dull skin, and cold hands and feet, among other ailments.
Modern medicine also recognizes the nutritional benefits of chicken hearts. They are an excellent source of vitamin B12, which is crucial for DNA synthesis and the formation of red blood cells. Additionally, chicken hearts contain zinc, which is essential for cell growth, wound healing, and blood sugar control.
Chicken hearts are also touted as an anti-aging food. They contain the trace element selenium, the antioxidant flavonoid, and vitamin A, all of which work to eliminate free radicals in the body and slow down the aging process, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
However, due to their high nutritional content, it is important to consume chicken hearts in moderation, as excessive intake may contribute to high cholesterol, gout, and high blood pressure.
Frequently asked questions
Chicken contains two super parts that have powerful benefits for our brain health. Firstly, chicken bones are rich in collagen and gelatin, which support gut health and reduce inflammation in the brain. Secondly, chicken hearts are a great source of essential nutrients like CoQ10, selenium, and B vitamins, which have been linked to improved cognitive function and protection against brain damage.
The health of our gut and brain are closely connected. A healthy gut contributes to a healthy brain by reducing inflammation and promoting the production of neurotransmitters that support cognitive function.
Collagen and gelatin, found abundantly in chicken bones, have multiple benefits for our body and brain. They support joint health, improve skin elasticity, and boost the health of our gut, which in turn reduces brain inflammation and promotes overall brain health.
Chicken hearts are packed with essential nutrients that are particularly beneficial for brain health. These include CoQ10, an antioxidant that supports brain energy metabolism and protects against oxidative stress; selenium, which has been linked to improved mood and cognitive function; and B vitamins, crucial for maintaining healthy brain function and preventing brain damage.
Chicken bones can be used to make bone broth, which is an easy and delicious way to consume collagen and gelatin. Simply simmer chicken bones in water with a bit of apple cider vinegar for 12-24 hours. As for chicken hearts, they can be grilled, sautéed, or baked. Adding them to skewers or stir-fries is a great way to include them in your meals.
The humble roadside weed and hedge plant has now become a sought-after ‘delicacy’. This is the story of cúc tần, also known as the ‘compassion plant’, a precious herb with myriad health benefits, especially for stomach ailments and kidney stone prevention.
According to Traditional Medicine, both ginger and garlic have a spicy and warm nature, which makes them effective in preventing and treating health conditions during the flood season, especially when one is exposed to the rain, or has to wade through muddy water.