Power up your plate… WITH EGGS!

With so much conflicting information about the humble egg, it’s tricky to know whether they’re a healthy staple or a recipe for high cholesterol and heart disease

- ROSE GOODMAN

Eggs have long been the source of debate among health specialists, due to concerns over their cholesterol content, but not only do they remain one of the best natural sources of protein, they’re also packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, D and B12. These are vital for our immune system, as well as helping to maintain strong bones and healthy blood cells. On a more practical note, their variations and suitability for almost any meal makes them a diet staple for both meat eaters and vegetarians.

The benefits

✱ Protein

Eggs contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein and a great healthy option. Most of the proteins come from the egg white, but the yolk is also filled with goodness. ‘The yolk has been unfairly criticised, yet it contains nutrients that are crucial to our health, including B12, zinc (to boost immunity), iron (helping red blood cells to carry oxygen), vitamin D (for healthy bones and a strong immunity) and potassium (heart health),’ explains nutrition expert Dr. Laure Hyvernat.

✱ Brain health

Eating eggs can boost brain power, according to a recent study.* Researchers monitored the diets of around 1,400 men and women, aged between 36 and 83, for three years and found that those regularly eating eggs performed better on memory tests and other cognitive abilities. Researchers suggest this is down to eggs being full of choline, a crucial nutrient for healthy memory, mood and muscle control.

✱ Eye health