To maintain good health, it’s essential to eat a balanced diet and consume all foods in moderation. Some foods have a cooling effect, while others have a warming effect, but this doesn’t mean specific foods should only be eaten in specific seasons. Take eggs, for example; they can be consumed in both summer and winter.
You may have heard the saying, “The closer the egg, the better your health.” That’s why eggs are considered a complete food. If the egg is from a free-range chicken (desi egg), it’s even better. However, eggs from broiler chickens can also be consumed as they contain fewer harmful elements compared to broiler chicken meat, making them a better choice for eating.
Including eggs in your daily diet can help prevent numerous health issues, such as high blood pressure, cholesterol problems, thyroid issues, dryness (anywhere in the body, including dry eyes), arthritis, weakened immunity, memory loss, vitamin D deficiency, cancer, menopause-related problems, physical weakness, skin issues, hair and nail disorders, depression, digestive problems, and more.
Common Misconceptions About Eggs
There are many misconceptions about eating eggs. For example, people often believe
- Eggs are “hot” in nature and harmful to blood pressure patients.
- Eggs cause allergies.
- Egg yolks are harmful due to cholesterol.
- Eggs should be avoided in heart diseases.
Here’s the truth.
Egg white contains protein, while the yolk contains cholesterol. But this cholesterol is the good cholesterol your body needs. A deficiency in this cholesterol can actually lead to an increase in bad cholesterol.
Eggs are rich in Vitamin A an antioxidant that benefits the skin, eyes, and immune system.
Vitamin D in eggs supports digestion, bone health, and combats depression. A deficiency in Vitamin D can lead to autoimmune diseases due to weakened immunity.
Vitamin K2 found in eggs, enhances blood circulation, prevents clotting, and helps Vitamin D perform its function effectively.
- Vitamin E in eggs reduces inflammation.
- Choline, an essential component in eggs, is excellent for brain health and preventing fatty liver.
- Vitamin B in egg yolks supports blood formation.
Why Eat the Whole Egg?
When you eat just the egg white, the insulin index spikes more rapidly compared to eating the whole egg (including the yolk). It’s recommended to consume two eggs daily, especially during breakfast, for sustained energy throughout the day.
Eggs and Thyroid Health
Thyroid patients need selenium, a mineral found in eggs, which helps convert T3 to T4 hormones. The liver also requires selenium and zinc to function properly, and their deficiency can affect thyroid health.
Choline in Eggs.
Eggs are one of the best sources of choline, a nutrient critical for forming cell membranes and supporting brain functions, including memory. This nutrient is particularly important for pregnant and breastfeeding women to ensure proper brain development in infants.
Consuming two eggs daily can help reduce age spots in women aged 35-40 and smoothen the skin. In men, it can significantly reduce wrinkles around the eyes.
Identifying and Choosing Desi Eggs
Desi eggs have the following. characteristics.
- Smaller in size.
- White or light golden in color.
Beware of Fraudulent “Desi” Eggs.
- Commercial eggs are often artificially colored and larger in size with a dark brown shell.
- Eggs sold as “desi” in markets are often from poultry farms where hens are confined and fed processed feed.
What Truly Makes an Egg “Desi”?
A desi egg comes from hens that roam freely, eat grass, insects, and natural grains like wheat, millet, and sorghum.
Understanding the term desi is key to identifying the real benefits of desi eggs. Including them in your diet can significantly boost your overall health and well-being.
