Nutrition Experts Hail ‘Eggsellent’ Health Benefits, As Nations Celebrate World Egg Day
The health benefits of eggs will be hailed across the globe today, as countries celebrate one of the original superfoods on World Egg Day.
Providing a high-quality source of protein, the nutritional value of the egg is undeniable, and experts from the International Egg Nutrition Centre (IENC) have identified five reasons to eat more eggs this World Egg Day.
- Eggs are among the most nutritious foods on the planet, and a fantastic source of protein
A single egg contains 14 essential nutrients including vitamins A, B, D and E, as well as being a source of calcium, selenium and iodine. Along with six grams of protein, eggs are one of the most nutritious foods available globally.
- Eggs contain choline which aids healthy brain development
This little-known nutrient plays an important role in building cell membranes, impacting a number of vital functions within the body, and eggs are one of the best natural sources of choline. Not only does it aid healthy brain development, it also plays a role in liver function and metabolism and has been found to reduce the risk of breast cancer by 24%[i].
- Eggs can reduce the risk of heart disease
Studies have found that eating eggs can lower the risk of heart disease in healthy people. Despite containing cholesterol, eggs contain high density level (HDL) or ‘good’ cholesterol and research shows that people with higher levels of HDL generally have reduced risks of heart disease.
- Eating eggs can maintain good eye health
Vitamin A deficiency is one of the leading causes of blindness across the globe, and eggs are a great natural source of vitamin A. The yolks also contain powerful antioxidants that can counteract some degenerative processes affecting eye health.
- Eggs have benefits for all ages
Eggs are a great source of nutrition at any age. From providing the building blocks during foetal development, to containing the level of nutrients needed to sustain energy throughout the day, eggs are a healthy source of protein that should be enjoyed by all ages.
Celebrations will be taking place around the world to mark World Egg Day 2019. To find out more visit www.worldeggday.com.
[i] Xu X, et al. Choline metabolism and risk of breast cancer in a population-based study. The FASEB Journal, published online on January 29, 2008.