The Skinny on Eggs
Posted by Dr. Alda Ngo
Egg Magic
“ If an egg is broken by an outside force, life ends, if broken by an inside force, life begins. “
Did you know that an egg is considered a single cell when unfertilized? Technically, it’s the yolk that is considered the largest cell on earth. (The yolk of an ostrich egg, to be exact). Crazy pants.
An egg cell can give rise to any other type of cell, and is basically designed to support the development of an entire whole new animal. Not entirely new news, but somehow amazing to stop and think about.
Egg Benefits
All to say, for being so affordable, eggs are super nutritious- jammed full of 18 vitamins and minerals, high in protein and important lipids, namely mono and poly-unsaturated fats.
Research shows that despite their past denunciation for being high in cholesterol, their other nutrients, including zinc, selenium, retinol and tocopherols actually have antioxidant effects. They help protect us from degenerative diseases, including cardiovascular disease (what eggs have been accused of causing in the past.)
It’s true that they’re high in cholesterol, however, solid research shows that dietary cholesterol has a smaller effect on total blood cholesterol and harmful LDL cholesterol than overall mix of fats in the diet.
Although another study reports that one egg per day is safe, anything beyond could increase the risk of heart failure with age.
Egg Landscape
That said, in Chinese Medicine, it’s all about each individual’s constitutional landscape.
For example, those with diabetes or heart disease should limit their egg intake. Eggs are also a common allergen, and can cause inflammation and mucus congestion in those who are systemically prone to this.
Ultimately, the middle road and everything in moderation is optimal, and it never hurts to chat with a health professional about what your body’s specific needs are.
Contact us for a free 15 minute consult if you have any questions.
References
PMID:16340654
PMID:23676423
PMID:10217054
PMID:18195171
