The egg is among the most nutritious foods for the human body. It is versatile, very nourishing and inexpensive. On the plate, scrambled, hard, with the shell, calves or in a smoothie, the eggs are perfectly integrated to all your meals. Discover the benefits of their daily intake.
In 2010, about 64 million tonnes of eggs were produced worldwide. Their consumption varies from one country to another, and in France, an average of 230 eggs per person per year is consumed, 140 of which are eggshells (averaging 4 eggs per week).
This food, rich in protein, carotenoids and choline, brings you many benefits, including:
The benefits of the nutrients contained in the egg:
1 - Ensure the proper functioning of the body:
The human body needs 20 amino acids to function properly. But even if it is possible to make the major part of it, it must be ensured a sufficient intake of those so called essential, and which come from our food. Knowing that eggs are among the foods that contain all of these essential amino acids, consuming them every day will allow your body to nourish its tissues (such as skin, muscles and bones), repair and preserve them state.
2 - Strengthen bones and teeth:
Eggs contain calcium and phosphorus, two essential minerals to strengthen and protect the health of bones and teeth, as well as to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. They also contain vitamin D which increases the availability of these two trace elements, and vitamin A that regulates their level in bones and teeth.
3 - Boost the immune system:
Eating one egg a day protects you against infections, diseases and viruses, by strengthening your immunity. Indeed, a large egg contains up to 22% of the recommended daily intake of selenium, an immune system stimulant. This mineral combines with an antioxidant enzyme to fight the accumulation of free radicals in the body and plays an important role in the conversion of thyroid hormones into their active form.
4 - Feeding the skin, hair and nails:
Protein, vitamin B and omega-3 fatty acids in eggs help nourish and strengthen your hair and nails and help preserve the health of your skin.
5 - Strengthening the muscles:
Thanks to their richness in protein, eggs contribute to the construction of muscle mass. They also include choline, the precursor of acetylcholine, a neuromediator that plays a particularly important role in muscle control and memory.
6 - Stimulate the functioning of the brain:
In addition to maintaining muscles, choline and vitamin B in eggs play an essential role in the growth, development and proper functioning of the brain. In addition, choline helps improve memory and increase alertness.
7 - Reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease:
The carotenoids contained in the egg can prevent diseases related to aging as well as certain types of cancers. These antioxidants have a powerful action that reduces the oxidation of cholesterol and the formation of plaque on the wall of the arteries, which translates into a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
8 - Prevent the appearance of cataract:
Lutein and zeaxanthin are powerful antioxidants found in eggs that protect the eyes, promote good vision and reduce the risk of cataracts.
9 - Contributing to Weight Loss
Very low in calories and possessing a satietogen effect which inhibits the cravings of nibbling, the egg is a true slimming ally. It also helps to improve digestion and promote fat removal.
Tips and tricks for egg conservation:
Eggs should be stored in the refrigerator on the center shelves and not on the shelf of the door. Repeated opening of the egg results in adverse temperature variations for the preservation of the eggs.
- They must be stored in their original packaging or placed in a closed container.
- This method of preservation reduces the loss of moisture.
- It is best to place the egg tip down, without washing the shell.
- Their shelf life must not exceed three weeks.