China’s millennia-long history records only three emperors who lived beyond the age of 80. On average, emperors here only lived to be around 39 years old. Among them, Qianlong, born in 1711, is known as the longest-living emperor, reaching the impressive age of 89. Research suggests that one of the contributing factors to his longevity and robust health was a diet rich in duck meat.
Qianlong’s daily menu was diverse and duck-centric, featuring dishes like duck stewed with bird’s nest, turnip duck soup, smoked duck, duck noodle soup, duck hot pot with cordyceps, and duck stewed with bamboo shoots. Especially during winter, duck meat became a staple in his diet.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, duck meat is considered a “top-notch nutritional food.” With its sweet and salty taste and cooling properties, duck meat impacts organs like the spleen, stomach, lungs, and kidneys, thereby nourishing and strengthening these organs while detoxifying the body. It is often recommended for those with weak digestion, loss of appetite, digestive issues, edema, and even lactating mothers.
Duck Meat: A Superfood in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Here are some specific health benefits associated with duck meat consumption:
High Nutritional Value and Tonic Effects
One of the most remarkable aspects of duck meat is its nutritional profile. Every 100g of duck meat contains between 19 and 25g of protein, along with significant amounts of unsaturated fats. Additionally, duck meat is packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, selenium, B-complex vitamins, vitamins A and D, and essential amino acids. These components not only boost energy levels but also support the health of the skin, muscles, and blood.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Duck meat can be considered a valuable alternative to meats high in saturated fats, as it still provides a substantial amount of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and iron. The good fats found in duck meat play a crucial role in maintaining “good” cholesterol levels while reducing “bad” cholesterol. As a result, consuming duck meat may help lower the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and certain chronic illnesses. Notably, duck fat is also regarded as superior to fat from some other animals, offering more pronounced health benefits.
Duck Meat: A Heart-Healthy Alternative
Blood Sugar Control
Recent studies suggest that foods rich in unsaturated fats, like duck meat, can help lower blood sugar levels. Consuming duck meat in moderation while limiting the intake of skin and fatty parts positively influences insulin activity, effectively supporting blood sugar management.
Immune System Boost
Duck meat is an excellent source of selenium, a potent antioxidant that protects cells from damage and reduces inflammation, thereby bolstering the body’s immune system. Additionally, the vitamin B content in duck meat contributes to enhanced immunity, improved nerve and muscle function, and better cognitive function and hormone production.
Improved Bone Health
The abundant protein in duck meat works to enhance bone density and strength. Moreover, duck meat contains phosphorus, a mineral essential for maintaining and strengthening bones and teeth, contributing to the development and protection of a robust skeletal system.
Duck Meat: A Protein-Rich Food for Bone Health
Anemia Prevention
A single serving of duck breast provides approximately 3.74g of iron, meeting 14% of the daily iron requirement. Iron is crucial for producing hemoglobin, which enables red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body’s cells and organs. Iron deficiency is the primary cause of anemia, which can lead to issues such as heart rhythm disorders and fatigue.
In addition to these blood-related benefits, duck meat aids in digestion, alleviating bloating and discomfort. It also supports muscle health, maintains skin moisture, prevents hair loss, and helps regulate blood pressure.
Precautions when Consuming Duck Meat
While duck meat offers a plethora of nutritional benefits, individuals with gout should limit their consumption due to its high purine content, which can elevate uric acid levels in the body. Duck meat is also cooling in nature, so those with cold constitutions, weak digestion, or respiratory illnesses should refrain from consuming it frequently to maintain optimal health.
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