Eggs For Health
Nov-15-2011

Eggs are one of the most popular anytime foods in the American diet, and for good reason as they pack a powerful nutritional punch. The yolk naturally contains zinc and vitamins D, E and A, and the white (called the albumen) is rich in riboflavin, magnesium, potassium, sodium, sulfur and niacin.

As well as being rich in vitamins and minerals, eggs are a great source of low-cost, high quality protein. A medium sized egg provides about 5.5 grams of protein (a little over 10% of the daily value) and a mere 68 calories. Eggs are also known to boost brainpower, due to the presence of choline. Choline, a member of the B vitamin family, is necessary for a whole host of functions in the body.

Choline is a key component of cell membranes, whose flexibility and integrity depend on adequate supplies of choline. It is also a key component of acetylcholine, the neurotrasmitter that carries messages to and from nerves and between nerves and muscle.

Eggs are also a great source of lutein, a carotenoid thought to help prevent age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. It is present in green colored vegetables and fruit but may be found in even higher amounts in eggs.

Yes, eggs are high in cholesterol, one egg contains the DV (daily value) of cholesterol, but health experts have now determined that people on a low-fat diet can eat one or two eggs a day without measurable changes in their blood cholesterol levels. The latest research even suggests that eating whole eggs may actually result in significant improvement in one's blood lipids profile (lower LDL levels and higher HDL levels) -even in people whose cholesterol levels rise when eating cholesterol-rich foods!
Weight loss? Yes, according to a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, two eggs for breakfast have been shown to help with weight loss; the protein keeps you fueled and feeling satisfied, thus not provoking further cravings.

Tip: One of the best ways to tell if an egg you have at home is fresh is to see if it floats: fresh eggs will sink, while older eggs float. As an egg ages, air is absorbed though the shell and it loses water and carbon dioxide through the pores making it lighter.

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Posted by Ken at 12:00 AM - Link to this entry  |  Share this entry  |  Print