Eggs for the Value-Conscious and Health-Minded

You might think it’s strange to follow up my last blog entry with another one about eggs, but eggs are not just a symbol of Spring.  They are one of nature’s most beneficial and nutritionally complete food and, especially in today’s economy, everyone should know that eggs are a good source of low-cost high-quality protein, providing 5.5 grams of protein in one egg for a caloric cost of only 68 calories.  Not only do eggs have a high protein content, but 93.7% of that protein is actually usable by the body.

Eggs contain all essential amino acids for humans and supply numerous vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin E, several B vitamins including niacin (B3) and thiamine (B1), folate, phosphorous and iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium.  I don’t think I need to remind you that healthy skin depends on a daily supply of these vitamins and minerals!

Additionally, the presence of choline and lecithin has both been shown by research to be beneficial for our nervous system in increasing memory and delaying Alzheimer’s disease.  Eggs are an exceptional source of lutein and xeaxanthin, as well as anti-inflammatory omega-3 essential fatty acids.  These carotenoids appear to be especially well absorbed into the retina, which may reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

So go ahead, start your seder with a roasted egg and turn those Easter Eggs into egg salad sandwiches after the hunt is over.  You’ll be nourishing your body with a valuable food source in celebration of Spring.