Amazing health benefits of eggs: why eggs are good for you

They might be small, but the humble egg is a nutritional powerhouse. Plus, their versatility means they can be used to make thousands of delicious recipes we all know and love. But do you know fact from fiction when it comes to the amazing health benefits of eggs?

Busting the biggest myths

You’re probably not unfamiliar with hearing that eating eggs can cause high cholesterol and can lead to cardiovascular problems. But, the reality of this is actually very different.

While the yolk of a medium egg contains a high level of approximately 186mg cholesterol, the majority of cholesterol is made by the liver as opposed to through diet. Approximately 25% of the cholesterol in the food we eat is absorbed by the intestine and 75% of the cholesterol in the blood is produced by the liver.*

Rather, high cholesterol can be caused by genetics and lifestyle choices like smoking and lack of exercise. This isn’t to say diet is not a contributing factor towards high cholesterol, though. Rather, a diet high in saturated fats such as fried foods, processed meat, and full-fat dairy products should be more of a cause for concern.

Eggs are also not responsible for clogged arteries or cardiovascular problems. It’s actually how you cook your eggs, or what you eat with them that could play more of a role in heart health. Frequently frying your eggs in lashings of butter or serving them alongside fried bacon every morning is more the problem. But, as with anything, moderation is key and you should always consult your doctor for tailored medical advice.

Why eggs are so great

A great source of micro and macronutrients

Whether it’s the yolk or the white, eggs are full of nutrients and vitamins that are useful for your body to function properly. Eggs contain carotenoids, antioxidants that help to fight against age-related diseases, especially eyesight.

Plus, eggs are rich in protein (2 eggs are equivalent to 100g of meat), vitamins A, D, E, K, B2 and N12, as well as phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and minerals, all of which keep your body in perfect working order.

The vitamin B present in eggs helps your brain to function properly, i.e. memory and concentration. Eggs can be consumed during pregnancy, as the nutrients present in eggs, including vitamin B9, help the growth and proper development of the fetus.

Eggs also contain Zinc for hormone regulation and with the proteins and vitamins they provide, eggs are a real ally for your hair. There are many recipes on the internet for caring for your hair with eggs but our favourite is using one egg, a few drops of sweet almond oil (no more than 4) and a spoonful of honey – your hair will thank you! Leave on for 10 minutes and rinse thoroughly.

Low calorie

Did you know that an egg contains only 90 calories? Two eggs at 90 calories each and you can make a low-calorie but very tasty omelet. The appetite-suppressant effect of eggs also makes it a food to include in your meals if you want to feel fuller for longer.

Sweet treat or protein-packed lunch?

Aside from the various health benefits, eggs can be used in many different ways, allowing us to vary our meals. Whether you like eggs fried, boiled, scrambled, in quiche, in cake or in pancakes, there’s something for everyone.

You can find a cake recipe here or why not try out a delicious banana bread? And for the perfect pancake recipe click here.

How to choose your eggs

Nothing beats the taste of freshly laid eggs from your hens. Plus, when your girls are as happy as can be in an Eglu Cube Chicken Coop, they taste even better! The love you put in towards caring for your flock really is returned with their labours of love in the form of tasty eggs. Having them on hand, without worrying about going shopping, is a real pleasure too.

You can even show off your hens’ hard work in the Omlet Egg Skelter. Not only will the beautiful design stand out in your kitchen, but it keeps your eggs neatly arranged in order of laying to ensure that you always use the oldest eggs first, meaning no waste.

But, if you’re yet to experience the joys of chicken-keeping and are purchasing your eggs from the supermarket, here’s what to look out for. Please note that the nutrient content may vary slightly depending on the origin of the eggs you consume. The omega 3 content may be lower if you buy your eggs from a cage farm instead of organic.

A grade eggs – Highest grade of eggs. Intact shells and are internally perfect. Eggs must be graded A for retail and catering.

B grade eggs – Unbroken shell, abnormal shape and staining.

Omlet and your eggs

Eggs have an array of benefits, and when chicken keeping is made so easy with Omlet, why miss out on the delight of having them fresh from your garden? From our Eglu Cube Chicken Coop for super speedy cleaning, Autodoor to put your flock to bed and the Walk In Chicken Run to give your chooks space to roam, shop Omlet’s remarkable range of chicken products, designed in-house by expert chicken keeping, animal loving engineers.