Eggs are a staple food that have been consumed by humans for thousands of years. In recent years, there has been a lot of debate about whether eggs are good for you or not.
Some people believe that eggs are a healthy source of protein and nutrients, while others argue that they are high in cholesterol and can raise the risk of heart disease.
So, what exactly do eggs do to your body? In this article, we will explore seven things that eggs can do for your health.
1. Improve Brain Function
Eggs are an excellent source of choline, a nutrient that is essential for brain development and function.
Choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in many cognitive processes including memory, mood, and muscle control. Studies have shown that consuming choline-rich foods like eggs can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline in old age.
2. Promote Weight Loss
Eggs are a low-calorie food that is high in protein and healthy fats. Protein is known to increase feelings of fullness and reduce appetite, which can lead to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.
In one study, participants who ate a breakfast of eggs and toast consumed fewer calories at lunch and throughout the day compared to those who ate a bagel for breakfast.
3. Boost Heart Health
Eggs are high in cholesterol, which has led to concerns about their effect on heart health. However, studies have shown that the cholesterol in eggs does not have a significant impact on blood cholesterol levels or the risk of heart disease.
In fact, eating eggs may improve heart health by increasing levels of HDL cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol, and reducing levels of LDL cholesterol, the “bad” cholesterol.
4. Strengthen Bones
Eggs are a good source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, a mineral that is important for building and maintaining strong bones.
Studies have shown that consuming eggs can improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis in older adults.
5. Improve Eye Health
Eggs are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that are important for eye health. These nutrients can help prevent age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in older adults.
One study found that consuming just one egg per day for five weeks increased levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in the blood, which could help protect against eye diseases.
6. Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural process that occurs in the body in response to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation has been linked to many health problems including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Eggs contain a variety of nutrients that have anti-inflammatory properties, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and antioxidants. Eating eggs may help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
7. Provide Essential Nutrients
Finally, eggs are a rich source of many essential nutrients including protein, vitamins, and minerals. One large egg contains around 6 grams of protein, as well as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium.
Eggs are also a good source of folate and iron, two nutrients that are important for pregnant women.
In conclusion, eggs are a nutritious food that can provide many health benefits when consumed in moderation. From improving brain function to reducing inflammation, eggs can be a valuable addition to a healthy diet.