Human beings have been eating eggs for thousands of years.
There are many different types of eggs, but the most common choice in our modern diets is that of the chicken.
Chicken eggs contain vitamins and minerals that are essential parts of a healthy diet. In most of the world, eggs are considered an available, inexpensive food.
Let’s explore some facts about eggs, and the health benefits of eating them.
The Health Benefits Of Eggs
How Are Eggs Formed?
The egg is formed in the reproductive tract of a female chicken, known as a hen. The reproductive tract is divided into two major parts, the ovary and the oviduct.
In the ovary is where the yolk is added. And when the yolk reaches the right size, it’s released from the ovary by a process called ovulation. (Source: www.4hlnet.extension.org)
Is The Chicken An Oviparous Animal?
The adjective oviparous is used to describe any animal that lays eggs. The word is most often used to distinguish egg-laying animals from those that give birth to live offspring.
A chicken is an example of an oviparous animal, since females lay eggs and keep them warm and safe until they hatch. All birds are oviparous, as are most reptiles, fish, and insects. (Source: www.vocabulary.com)
Are Eggs Healthy To Eat?
Eggs are packed with high-quality proteins, minerals, vitamins, good fats and various trace nutrients.
A large egg has only 77 calories, containing 5 grams of fat and 6 grams of protein with all 9 essential amino acids. They are rich in iron, phosphorus, selenium and vitamins A, B12, B2 and B5.(Source: www.healthline.com)
What Are Some Health Benefits of Eating Eggs?
Eating eggs leads to elevated levels of the “good” cholesterol, also known as high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
People that have higher HDL levels have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke and other health issues. According to one study, eating two eggs a day for six weeks increased HDL levels by 10%.(Source: www.keckmedicine.org)
Are Eggs A Good Option For Vegetarians?
Eggs are one of the best ways for vegetarians to get their protein when compared to vegetarian alternatives like soya and tofu.
On average, a medium-sized egg contains just over 6 grams of high quality protein. Try adding them to salads and other vegetarian-friendly meals.
When Is The Best Time To Eat Eggs?
To get the best results, eggs should be eaten at breakfast. It will fuel your body with energy and can also keep you going for the rest of the day.
Your digestion system is at its best in the morning, and it will be easier to break down proteins and many other nutrients present in eggs.(Source: www.thehealthsite.com)
How Long Should You Boil Eggs?
- 4 minutes for a slightly set yolk and set white.
- 5 minutes for a medium cooked firmer yolk and white.
- 6 minutes for hard boiled with a lightly soft yolk.
- 8 minutes for firmly hard boiled.
How Long Do Boiled Eggs Last In The Fridge?
The egg shell will help to protect the egg from bacteria, and can prevent them from absorbing odours from other foods in your refrigerator.
Hard-boiled eggs can generally be preserved up to 7 days in the refrigerator.(Source: www.egginfo.co.uk)
What Are Eggs Used For In A Kitchen?
In the kitchen, eggs play an important role in everything from cakes and cookies to meringues and pastries.
They create structure and stability in a batter, they help thicken and emulsify sauces and custards, and they add moisture to cakes and other baked goods. They can even be used as glue or glaze.
What Are Some Uses Of Eggs In Cooking?
In baking and cooking there are five main functions of an egg. They bind, thicken, coat, serve as a leavening/raising agent, and emulsify.
Do Organic Eggs Exist?
For eggs to be organic, the only stipulation is that they must come from hens who are fed an organic diet.
If you want the best option, look for cartons stamped with the Certified Humane or Animal Welfare Approved seal, both of which are administered by third-party groups. (Source: www.eater.com)
Why Do Some People Eat Eggs Raw?
Because eggs are so nutrient-rich, eating pasteurized raw egg yolks and drinking raw egg whites can offer a range of healthy vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Lots of people are drawn to raw eggs because they retain more of these nutrients than cooked eggs. (Source: www.saudereggs.com)
Are Raw Eggs Safe To Eat?
Raw eggs are not safe to eat if they’re unpasteurized.
They could contain harmful bacteria. Although eggs can be sold as pasteurized, meaning they’re heated just enough so bacteria is killed off, it’s still not recommended according to many sources. (Source: www.health.clevelandclinic.org)
Do Eggs Increase Hair Growth?
Vitamins A and E, biotin, and folate are some of the nutrients that researchers have linked to hair growth and healthy hair.
Egg yolk in particular can be good for your hair, due to the unique combination of vitamins found inside. (Source: www.healthline.com)
Final Thoughts
Eggs are a versatile gift from nature. When cooking or baking, eggs can enhance the nutritional value of what you are making.
They also make a great vegetarian option due to their high vitamin B12 content.
If you are fortunate enough to have access, try purchasing local eggs from a farmer you trust.
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