Eggs are one of the most versatile foods and can be eaten at any time of the day. They are also one of the most nutritious foods, packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein.
However, there is still a longstanding debate about whether it is better to eat the whole egg or just the egg whites. In this article, we will explore the benefits of eating egg whites over whole eggs.
Low Calorie Content
Egg whites are an excellent option for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. One whole egg contains around 70-80 calories, while an egg white contains only 17-20 calories.
This means that by eating egg whites instead of whole eggs, you can significantly reduce your calorie intake without sacrificing the protein content.
High Protein Content
Egg whites are an excellent source of protein, making them a popular choice for athletes and bodybuilders. One egg white contains around 3.6 grams of protein, while a whole egg contains around 6 grams of protein.
While this might seem like a lot of protein, it is essential to remember that the protein in egg whites is virtually fat-free.
No Cholesterol
The yolk of an egg contains all the cholesterol in an egg. By removing the yolk and eating only the egg white, you can significantly reduce your cholesterol intake.
Cholesterol is not a bad nutrient, but consuming too much can lead to high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and heart diseases. Therefore, eating egg whites only helps in maintaining heart health in the long run.
Lower Risk of Diabetes
Eating egg whites may help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Research has shown that egg white protein can affect glucose and insulin levels, which can be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, consuming protein-rich foods, such as egg whites, can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the urge to snack on unhealthy foods and lowering your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Low Carb Content
Egg whites contain very few carbohydrates, making them ideal for people who follow a low-carb or ketogenic diet. One large egg white contains only 0.4 grams of carbohydrates, while a whole egg contains around 0.6 grams of carbs.
This means that by eating egg whites instead of whole eggs, you can stay in a state of ketosis for longer, aiding in weight loss and overall health.
Easy to Cook
Egg whites are straightforward to cook and can be used in many different ways in the kitchen. You can scramble them, use them to make omelets, or add them to pancakes or smoothies to boost the protein content.
They are also an ideal ingredient in many baked goods such as macarons, meringues and angel food cake. Furthermore, egg whites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to six months, making them an ideal ingredient that can be used whenever needed.
Great for Hair and Skin
Egg whites contain high amounts of both collagen and protein, which are essential nutrients for maintaining healthy hair and skin. Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body and is responsible for giving your skin its elasticity.
Eating egg whites regularly can help to reduce wrinkles, while the protein found in egg whites can help to strengthen hair, promote hair growth and prevent hair loss.
Affordable
Egg whites are an affordable source of protein, making them an ideal option for people who want to eat healthily on a budget.
Unlike other sources of protein, such as meat or fish, egg whites are readily available and can be purchased at any supermarket. Not only is the cost affordable, egg whites also have a longer shelf life and can be stored for longer periods of time.
Conclusion
Egg whites are a fantastic source of protein and nutrients, with numerous health benefits when compared to whole eggs. They are easy to cook, affordable, and versatile, making them an ideal ingredient for many different dishes.
Whether you are trying to lose weight, maintain a healthy lifestyle or boost your skin and hair health, incorporating egg whites into your diet could be a great way to achieve your goals.