Eggs are packed with a range of nutrients including protein, essential vitamins A, D, E, and B group as well as minerals iron, phosphorus and zinc. They’re relatively low in saturated fat, making them a healthy fast food for all the family.They’re low in calories with only around 80 kcals per medium egg – so they are great if you’re on a diet, especially combined with vegetables and salads as part of healthy balanced meals!

Eggs are one of the most nutritious foods money can buy. They contain a wealth of vitamins, minerals and protein. In particular, they contain B vitamins that perform many vital functions in the body and are especially rich in vitamin B2 riboflavin, important in the release of energy in the body, and vitamin B12 needed for normal blood formation.

Eggs are a source of vitamin D, which is involved in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus and is necessary for bone health. They also contain vitamin A – essential for normal growth and development and vitamin E that is necessary for cell protection from the damage caused by free radicals.

Eggs contain many essential minerals, in particular phosphorus, essential for healthy teeth and bones, as well as iron, which is essential for red blood cell formation and zinc, for the normal function of the immune system.

Trace elements are also present in eggs, especially iodine, required to make thyroid hormones, and selenium, an important antioxidant. Antioxidants work by preventing the damage caused by uncontrolled oxidation in the body and are believed to help protect against diseases such as heart disease and some cancers.

Eggs are a great source of choline. Although not an essential nutrient, because it can be made by the body, dietary choline has become the focus of recent interest because of its role in brain function. Studies in animals suggest that choline intake during pregnancy might influence development of the baby’s brain in the uterus, but this has not been proven in humans.

For more information on the health benefits of eggs go to:

www.nutritionandeggs.co.uk

www.enc-online.org