On some evenings, cooking might not be an appealing option, yet we still want to avoid resorting to takeout or delivery. So, we head to the grocery store with good intentions to purchase nutritious ingredients for a homemade dinner. There, we are confronted with the most delicious sight - a rotisserie chicken. Anyone who loves chicken cannot feel as if their entire nervous system just got a jolt. The smell, the deep golden-brown color, it's very seductive. But is it good for you? This is what we're going to find out.
Anyone who has ever bought a rotisserie chicken from a grocery store can attest to their mouth-watering appeal. These chickens are typically juicy and flavorful, providing enough servings for an entire family when accompanied by side dishes like salad, dinner rolls, or vegetables. Rotisserie chickens are not only convenient, but they are also often priced affordably, making them a seemingly excellent alternative to fast food. It's easy to convince ourselves that chicken is healthy, so it should be a suitable dinner option.
While the convenience and price are undeniable, the healthiness of store-bought rotisserie chicken may depend on where you purchase it. Consumer Reports investigated the health aspects of rotisserie chickens, focusing on those labeled "plain" or "original." The study revealed that "plain" doesn't always imply a lack of additives.
Many grocery store rotisserie chickens are injected with a solution to ensure juiciness, which often results in a high sodium content. Even if you enjoy salt on your chicken, these chickens can contain up to 9 times more sodium than if the solution wasn't added. This is significantly more salt than you would typically use when seasoning chicken, yourself. This amount of sodium is a bit of a shock to the system, and may cause a sudden and significant increase in blood pressure, which may cause problems. High sodium intake is connected to hypertension, heart disease and kidney disease, among other health issues.
The worst culprits are the Member’s Mark Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken from Sam’s Club, with 550 mg of sodium per 3 oz serving, and Costco's Kirkland chickens, containing 460 mg of sodium per serving.
The Simple Truth rotisserie chicken from Kroger has the lowest sodium content at 40 mg per serving, with ingredients limited to chicken, water, and sea salt.
In conclusion, before purchasing a rotisserie chicken, we advise checking the nutrition label for ingredients and sodium content, enabling you to make an informed decision. If the label isn't on the package, consult a deli employee, as the store should have the information readily available.
On the other hand, non-rotisserie chicken offers various health benefits. Regular chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and maintenance. It also contains essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, niacin, selenium, and phosphorus. Preparing chicken without added solutions or excessive sodium helps maintain its nutritional value, making it a healthier choice for your meals. So consider that next time you shop.
9 Vegetables That Are Healthier Cooked
Learn about the 9 vegetables you should prefer cooked rather than raw, and why.
ARFID: An Undiagnosed Eating Disorder?
In the ever-evolving realm of psychological disorders, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) has emerged as a puzzling newcomer in recent years.
What Makes Sandwich Bread so Different than Bakery Bread?
The imminent differences between sandwich bread and bakery bread has an effect on your health.
What Does Vitamin E Do, and Where Do We Get It From?
This discussion delves into eight noteworthy benefits of vitamin E, substantiated by scientific research.
Should Children Have Caffeine? Here's Our Complete Answer
This article asks: should kids have caffeine, and how much is too much?
Peanut Butter at Bedtime? Don't Mind If I Do!
Learn about 4 snacks you can enjoy guilt-free when you're feeling peckish before bed.
This Letter Expresses a Parent's Love For Their Child...
This heartwarming letter is definitely one to share with our children and let them know just how much they mean to us.
This Devoted Dad Has Some Words to Share....
Michael Mitchell is a devoted American father who collects tips from various fathers about raising kids, and these are some of his most interesting!
5 Vaccinations Every Grandparent Should Get
As a grandparent, you may wonder what vaccinations you need to take to make sure your grandkids are safe.
How to Talk to Your Children About War & Conflict
As parents, how should you explain to your children about war? Here’s a guide that draws on expert opinions and research to help.
These 5 Holding Positions Can Help a Baby in Many Ways
If you've ever wondered how to help your baby release gas, burp, or even just calm them when they're crying, read this article and learn 5 new holding positions!
This Mother's Letter to Her Daughter Touched Me Deeply
There is nothing quite like a mother's love for her daughter, as this heartbreaking letter reveals. Prepare to be moved.
5 Tools to Help You Make a Strong, Stable Family
What tools can we use to make our family stronger and less dysfunctional? This article will help you by giving 5 tools to do just that.
Remember This 6-Letter Phrase to Mend Passive Aggression
Emotional intelligence experts swear by this one simple 6-phrase to stop passive aggression in its tracks.
10 Worst Things to Say When Talking to Your Grandchildren
In this article, we will look at some of the things you should never say to your grandchildren.
Couples Who Stay Together Forever Have 19 Things In Common
Although it looks like everlasting love is but a mere stroke of luck, there are 19 secrets that are shared by all couples that get to experience it...
Find a Deep Reflection of the Modern World in These Images
Modern society has plenty of drawbacks. An artist has brilliantly depicted some of the stark realities of the modern world through his work.
Nine Couples Games that Can Strengthen Relationships
Each game is designed to make you a more loving and understanding couple, whether you are just starting out or have been married for years.
How to Answer Children's Toughest Questions
Answer your children's burning questions and find new questions to keep the conversation going at every age.
Guide: The 4 Types of Dyslexia in Children
Every parent should get to know this subject beyond the superficial level, and also learn how to identify dyslexia in their children.
Does Your Child or Grandchild Sit in This Dangerous Pose?
There is a worrying argument that one of the most common kneeling poses that children make is damaging their health.
Guide: What to Feed a Baby at Every Age
Not all solid foods are suitable for every stage, which is why we have created a guide to help you feed your baby according to their age.
Which Occupations Cheat the Most? The Answers are In...
Research indicates that certain professions tend to have a higher likelihood of infidelity.
Hilarious: Before Being a Parent, and AFTER Being One...
Check out this hilarious photo-compilation of parents before and after children.
How to Stop the Cycle of Guilt Between Generations
Dear Parents, guilt-tripping your kids can seriously harm your relationship.
They May Drive You Crazy, But Family is Family!
Family can drive you crazy but at the end of the day you can't help but love them. Here are some beautiful and funny quotes and pictures to make your day.
A Beautiful Old Tale: The Lion and the Mouse.
Share a lovely tale with anyone who loves bedtime stories in classic style!
WARNING: Don't Let Children Play With These Toys
Today there is a large selection of toys, and although they should be fun some may be real life-threatening, such as those on this list,
7 Ways to Combat Passive Aggressive Behavior
Common passive-aggressive behaviors and the recommended responses to situations you may encounter.
Celebrating a Bond Between Grandmother and Grandson...
This short video is a gentle and beautiful example of loving your family.
8 Signs It's Time to Sever Ties From a Family Member
Sometimes, it’s important to sever ties with a family member who has been nothing but toxic to you.
8 Things You’re Doing That Are Spoiling Your Child
The desire to help our children and keep them happy all the time may make them spoiled, so avoid it by following these 8 tips!
Solving 10 Food-Related Problems Some Parents Face
we have gathered 10 common problems and the best solutions to address them, assisting you to get through each family dinner or feeding the baby with ease.
8 Food Combinations Perfect for a Growing Baby
Not only will these combinations put a smile on your little one's face, but they will also contribute significantly to their overall health.
For a Divorce-Proof Marriage These Tips Are All You Need
Read these words of advice carefully, and write them on your heart!
Beautiful: What Kids Should REALLY Be Taught at School!
Children and young teens need to be taught life lessons, that will enable them to be independent and certain, yet respectful.
Darling Child, Here are 8 ‘Sorrys’ I Meant to Tell You
Dear child, I love you, I always have and I always will, but there are many things I should apologize for. Here are 8 of my 'sorrys'.
How to Raise Happy Children: 10 Scientific Steps!
The most important thing for kids' success is their happiness, and these 10 top tips for getting your kids and grandkids happy are backed by science!
Couples Passionate About Each Other Practice These Rituals
It's amazing to think what miraculous things can happen between a couple when new positive, behavior patterns are developed.
Did You Know Grandkids Are Good for Your Health?
In this article, we will introduce the many good ways grandkids influence your life, mind, and body.
12 Classic Christmas Stories All Children Will Love
Enjoy the holidays with your kids by reading one of these heartwarming Christmas books to your kid.
How to Get Your Child to be Serious When Appropriate
How do you establish boundaries and make sure your child is behaving seriously at solemn occasions.
Everyone Deserves Self-Care: 6 Easy Tips for Parents
A reminder for parents to take time for themselves. 6 small ways to practice self-care in a parent's busy everyday life.
As a Baby Grows, THIS is What It Will See...
It's no secret that babies see the world differently than the rest of us do, and this video will show you just what their visual development looks like.
Children are Capable of So Much More than We Realize...
After seeing this video, you'll never dismiss kids just because of their age.
7 Things Your Kids Will Never Forget About You...
The impression you made on your children and grandchildren is something that they will always love you for. They will never let go of those sweet memories.
This Short Tale Reminds Us of a Person’s True Worth...
A short story that will remind you what a person's true worth is...