My Professor of Nutrition in Chinese Medicine considers an Egg: the perfect food as it contains all the ingredients to become a Chicken.
Though eggs haven’t always been considered healthy, their bad reputation actually stemmed from a misunderstanding about cholesterol. There are two types ~ blood cholesterol, which is a marker of cardiovascular disease… and dietary cholesterol, the kind in eggs. The two cholesterol forms got scrambled together in health reports, but dietary cholesterol does not have a significant impact on blood cholesterol. When it comes to raising blood cholesterol ~ saturated fats and carbohydrates are the bigger concern.
Eggs are a great source of nutrients. Eggs are also an excellent source of protein in addition to being inexpensive, easily digestible and nutrient-packed. Donald K. Layman, PhD, professor emeritus of nutrition at the University of Illinois, in his team’s review of prior egg studies published in the January/February 2009 issue of the journal, Nutrition Today, concluded that eggs make a significant contribution to muscle strength, energy and power. That fact that they are so easily digestible makes them an ideal choice for older people and those with digestive disorders. Other benefits of super-nutritious eggs include…
~ Each egg contains six to seven grams of protein (more than 10% of the daily value) and all eight essential amino acids ~ tools the body needs to build and maintain muscle.
~ Eggs at breakfast provide an excellent source of energy to keep you going throughout the morning.
~ Eggs have a “satiety effect.” They leave you feeling more satisfied ~ fuller and less likely to soon be hungry again than refined carbs from a bagel, doughnut or croissant.
~ Eggs are low in fat and carbohydrates. One egg contains just five grams of fat, including 1.5 grams of saturated fat, and has zero carbohydrates.
Other research notes that eggs are rich in lutein, which is good for the eyes and may help prevent macular degeneration, and choline, a nutrient that supports the brain and nervous system… sulfur, which promotes healthy hair and nails… and vitamins B-12 and B-6, vital to energy production.
EATING EGGS
*The healthiest ways to cook eggs are in water (poached, boiled) instead of frying.
** As always ~ consult with your doctor first if you are on medication.
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