If you ever feel guilty about eating pizza, you may be surprised to learn that it has a few health benefits.
Protein
In an interview with Insider, Chelsey Amer, MS, RDN, CDN stated that the average slice of pizza contains about 12 grams of protein!
Amer explained, “Pizza can be a balanced meal and there are plenty of ways to boost the nutrition of your average slice of pizza too. Not all slices are created equally. For example, a greasy slice with extra pepperoni or a deep-dish meat lovers pie may not be your best bets.”
However, many different types of pizzas including a classic Neopolitan pie is made with simple ingredients including fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.
Absorbing Lycopene
Amer also explained that pizza can help you absorb lycopene, which is an antioxidant found in tomatoes. She stated, “Lycopene is more readily absorbed from cooked tomatoes compared to fresh.” Lycopene can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol!
It can be a healthier breakfast than many cereals
Pizza is a balanced meal as it contains proteins, fat, and carbs. Many breakfast cereals are loaded with sugar and a bowl of cereal is not a balanced meal. Amer explained, “There’s protein and fat to balance out the refined carbohydrate crust in a slice of pizza. This means that your blood sugar won’t spike and then crash in the same fashion as it would with a sugary bowl of cereal, for example, which will leave you filling full and satisfied for a longer period of time.”
Sources:
- 10 reasons why pizza can actually be good for you [Insider]
