It’s January, and in honor of National Egg Month, we’ve decided to talk about the health benefits of the incredible, edible egg. Over the years, eggs have taken a lot of criticism for being high in cholesterol. Turns out, there is actually no link between eggs and either heart attack or stroke. Now that the myth has been laid to rest, read about why eggs rock!
Reduces Your Risk For Cancer
Whole eggs are high in the nutrient choline, which is found mostly in the yolk. According to a recent study, women with a high intake of choline were 24 percent less likely to develop breast cancer. Ladies, feel free to ditch those egg-white omelets and opt for some scrambled eggs instead.
Great For The Eyes
Eggs are great for your peepers. People who eat eggs every day have a lower risk of developing cataracts. Eggs also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which are two antioxidants that have been shown to prevent muscular degeneration. A diet rich in eggs will help increase muscle strength and eye health.
Natural Metabolism Booster
Eggs are high in protein and all nine essential amino acids. Research has show that obese people who ate eggs for breakfast at least five times a week in substitute of carbohydrates lost 65 percent more weight than those who did not. This is because eggs are a more satisfying than carbs, keeping you fuller longer. Start eating eggs for breakfast and watch your waistline shrink.
Which Eggs Are Best?
All eggs contain the same basic good stuff. However, depending on your own eating habits, you might want to invest in some specialty eggs. For example, chickens that are not fed byproducts, antibiotics or certain additives lay organic eggs. Organic eggs are by far healthier for the body than non-organic. Pasteurized eggs refer to eggs that have been placed in warm water to kill bacteria. And if you’re not into seafood, purchase eggs that are enhanced with Omega-3. This will ensure that you get your heart-healthy fatty acids. Whatever you do, be sure to skip labels that say cage free, free range and pasture raised—they don’t guarantee happy chickens!
As you can see, eggs are packed with a number of essential vitamins and minerals, high-quality protein, unsaturated fats and antioxidants. They are great for weight management, muscle strength, eye health and a number of other health-related benefits. Want to learn more about eggs? Visit incredibleegg.org for recipes, fun facts and much more!
