Eggs 101
Nutrition
Eggs aren’t just delicious, they offer a number of beneficial nutrients that promote good health. The nutrient value of eggs benefits many people, including children, pregnant women, seniors and those looking to lose some weight.
Eggs for Children
For children, eggs lend versatility to a healthy diet. Scrambled, fried or hard-boiled — there’s usually at least one option that kids like. Nutrient-dense breakfasts including eggs have been shown to help children focus and perform better in school.
Eggs for Pregnant Women
Eggs also are an excellent source of choline, a nutrient considered essential for normal fetal/infant brain development and for memory, even later in life. Pregnant women trying to get more protein and choline into their diets can benefit from eating eggs more frequently. The type of iron in eggs (a healthy mixture of heme and non-heme iron) is particularly well-absorbed and is also a good choice for pregnant and breastfeeding women who are at higher risk for anemia.
Eggs for Dieting
For Ohioans watching their weight, eggs also are a good choice. Egg protein is of such high quality, it is used as the standard by which all other protein sources are compared. The high-quality protein in eggs helps you feel fuller longer and stay energized, which contributes to maintaining a healthy weight.
Eggs for Older Ohioans
Eggs are one way Americans can stay strong as they get older. Macular degeneration — a leading cause of irreversible blindness — is a concern for Ohio’s seniors. Lutein and zeaxanthin found in egg yolks may both reduce the risk for cataracts and help prevent macular degeneration. In addition, the high-quality protein found in eggs also helps older adults prevent sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength.
