DID YOU know that an egg or two a day can help keep the doctor away?
Yes, contrary to what we’ve been told that eggs, particularly egg yolks, are rich in cholesterol, new studies have shown that it does not and is not implicated in cardiovascular events.
Recent studies have shown a lot of health benefits being derived from eating eggs. And let’s be honest, we all have eggs at home and it is always a part of our grocery list.
Except for those with egg allergies, almost all of us like to eat eggs especially for breakfast. Whether it is hard or soft boiled, scrambled, sunny side up and omelettes, eggs have become a staple for most breakfasts all over the world.
So what do eggs contain?
Eggs contain vitamins A, D, and E as well as B12, riboflavin and folate. Minerals such as iodine, iron, calcium, zinc and selenium can also be found in eggs.
To contradict the opinion that cholesterol is found in eggs, yes it’s true but it’s not that bad as what dietary experts say.
So for the specific health benefits that we can get from eggs:
Eggs are basically protein and we know that a protein-rich breakfast can help you lose weight. It also makes you feel full longer thus your overall calorie intake is lower because you will be eating less.
Eggs strengthen your immune system because of the presence of selenium, a strong element known for bolstering our immune system.
Eggs improve our memory because of the presence of choline. An amino acid which affects the nerve signals that help us to remember the little things.
Eggs are good for the eyes. Eggs contain lutein, an element that helps our eyes maintain clear and sharp vision by protecting the retina from being damaged.
Eggs strengthen our skeleton as well as prevent osteoporosis because of the presence of calcium and Vitamin D. Vitamin D also helps counteract depression and strengthens our teeth.
Eggs are good for the blood. Because of the presence of folate, which is necessary for the formation of new blood cells, anemia can be prevented. For women who are in their child bearing age, folate is very important not only to prevent anemia but in the proper development of fetuses in the womb.
Eggs help you to stay young. Since they contain amino acids essential for building and regenerating cells, including skin cells, eggs can help you with maintaining that youthful appearance.
Eggs reduce your heart risk. A study has shown a direct correlation between egg dense foods and a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers. The reason for this is the presence of two powerful antioxidants, tryptophan and tyrosine.
Since eggs are packed full of protein, it adds to our muscle mass.
The presence of B vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids in eggs help keep our skin, hair and nails healthy.
So, aren’t you glad that something so simple, readily accessible and easy to prepare can be so good and healthy for you? Go ahead, don’t feel guilty, you can eat eggs everyday.
***
Jessica P. Segovia-Yap, M.D., FPAFP is a Diplomate and Fellow of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians. She is a practicing Family Medicine Specialist and holds clinic at the Medical Arts Building of Iloilo Mission Hospital. For comments, questions and suggestions, you may email at drjec.is.in@ gmail.com./PN
