Gravy represents a staple of the average American Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner, but also complements the flavors of several foods consumed year-round. When consumed in moderation, gravy can add flavor to a healthy and balanced diet. Topping your meals with gravy -- whether it's made from scratch, prepared from a dry mix, or purchased prepared and canned -- provides your body with small amounts of essential nutrients.
Sodium
One of the minerals present in gravy is sodium, or salt. Your body requires sodium to aid in nerve impulse transmission, and the salt in your body also helps regulate your blood volume and blood pressure. Prepared gravies -- such as canned or dry gravy powder -- might contain large amounts of sodium to improve the food's flavor and shelf life. These high levels of salt intake might harm some individuals, leading to high blood pressure and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Check the nutrition label on pre-packaged gravy to determine its sodium content, and choose low-sodium gravies to help reduce your sodium intake.
Potassium
Gravy also contains small amounts of potassium, another essential mineral. Potassium works together with sodium to promote proper nerve functioning and communication. In addition, potassium aids in muscle functioning and promotes proper digestion; it also helps maintain a regular heartbeat. Gravy made using 2 tbsp. of brown gravy mix contains 31 milligrams of potassium, contributing a modest amount to your daily recommended intake.
Phosphorus
Consuming gravy also provides your body with a small amount of phosphorus. This mineral represents a component of phospholipids, the fats that make up your cellular membranes. Your body also incorporates the phosphorus from your diet into bone and tooth mineral tissue, and consuming adequate phosphorus helps retain a healthy bone density. Gravy made from 2 tbsp. of brown gravy mix provides 24 milligrams of phosphorus, about 3 percent of your daily recommended intake, according to the Linus Pauling Institute.
B-Vitamins
Gravy also contains a source of essential vitamins, including the family of B-vitamins. Collectively, these vitamins help your body metabolize proteins, fats and sugars, allowing your cells to produce usable energy from the foods you eat. In addition, individual B-vitamins contribute to nerve functioning, hormone production, control over blood pressure and blood cell function. Gravy made from 2 tbsp. of brown gravy mix provides a source of several B-vitamins, including B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5 and B-9. The specific vitamin content of gravy might differ, depending on the brand, so check the nutrition label to determine the exact nutrient content of your gravy.
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