The Surprising Health Benefits of Eating Two Eggs a Day
Regardless of your personal opinion on eggs, let’s be honest – you probably have a carton in your fridge from time to time.
For me, having eggs each morning is a great way to start the day. Not only do they taste delicious, but I’ve also learned that they offer numerous benefits beyond just being tasty. Even I didn’t fully appreciate how beneficial they can be.
After reading the information in this article, however, I’ve increased my egg intake to at least two every day.
So, let’s dive in. What exactly do eggs contain? Are they dangerous to eat regularly? And how important are they in a healthy, balanced diet? Fortunately, we have all the answers for you.
What do eggs actually contain?
Eggs are packed with nutrients. They contain vitamins A, D, and E, along with B12, riboflavin, and folate. In addition, eggs are rich in minerals like iodine, iron, calcium, zinc, and selenium.
Eggs and Cholesterol
If you’ve been around long enough, you’ve probably heard that eggs are bad for you because they contain cholesterol.
This is a misconception. While eggs do contain cholesterol, it’s not the kind that harms your health. The cholesterol in eggs doesn’t contribute to the same harmful effects that some other types do. According to dietary expert Jennie Nyenvik of the Swedish site Aftonbladet, you don’t need to worry about the cholesterol in eggs.
Moreover, studies have shown that a protein-rich breakfast, like one that includes eggs, can actually aid in weight loss. Research indicates that a low-calorie diet combined with a daily serving of eggs at breakfast can help you lose weight twice as fast. Additionally, eggs can help you feel fuller for longer, which can assist in lowering your overall calorie intake.
Eggs and Your Immune System
As we transition out of the winter months – when many of us have battled through colds and flu – it’s the perfect time to highlight how eggs can strengthen your immune system.
Studies show that consuming just two eggs a day can help protect against infections, viruses, and general illness. Eggs provide 22% of the recommended daily intake of selenium, a mineral known for boosting the immune system.
Eggs and the Body
Have you ever heard of the amino acid choline? It plays a key role in the nerve signals that help us remember everyday things – like where we left our keys or wallet.
Research suggests that supplementing with choline can improve memory and responsiveness.
Eggs are also rich in lutein, a compound that helps maintain clear, sharp vision. New studies have found that chicken eggs are a good source of lutein, which is naturally produced by the eyes to protect the retina from damage.
Counteracting Depression
Vitamin D can be hard to come by in the winter months, especially when the sun seems to be hiding. However, eggs can help you meet your vitamin D needs. This vitamin is essential for maintaining the pH balance of your teeth and promoting strong bones.
Vitamin D also plays a role in fighting depression, and eggs contain plenty of folate – a B-vitamin necessary for producing new red blood cells. A lack of folate can lead to anemia, and it’s also crucial for fetal development, making eggs an important food for expectant mothers.
Anti-Aging
As mentioned earlier, eggs contain amino acids that help build and regenerate cells. This can aid in combating the visible signs of aging.
As we age, our need for vitamin D increases. For those over the age of 60, the recommended daily intake is 10 micrograms. One egg contains about 0.7 micrograms of vitamin D.
Reduced Heart Risk
Canadian researchers have found a clear connection between diets high in eggs and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. The key to this benefit? Eggs contain two important antioxidants: tryptophan and tyrosine.
For individuals with high levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol – the “bad” cholesterol – eggs can actually help improve their levels, which may lower the risk of heart-related issues.
I’m sure you already knew eggs were good for you, but after reading this, you might now view them in a whole new light.