Dr. Sunil - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Sunil

Are Eggs Bad For You?


Grade

B


Short answer

Eggs are an excellent source of vital nutrients. In moderation (doctors recommend no more than 3 whole eggs daily), they are among the healthiest foods one can consume. It is important, however, to know the difference between cage-raised and farm-raised eggs.

Grade

B

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Long answer

Among the several benefits people can get from eating eggs there is the fact that eggs are very satiating and high in protein. This means that by eating an egg for breakfast, a person feels full, needing to eat less throughout the day (which keeps calorie count in check) all the while having enough energy to go about the day's tasks. In addition to this, eggs also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which help prevent eye disorders such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Furthermore, eggs are rich in a host of vitamins and minerals, including choline, which studies have shown to be an important component in improving brain development and memory.

While all eggs are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals, there are some differences between eggs from hens that are allowed to roam freely and from those who are confined in cages. Farm-raised hens, which produce pasteurized eggs or "free-range" eggs are hens that are allowed to get their own food, a natural diet consisting of seeds, insects, and the like. Eggs from cage-raised hens are often treated with vitamins and minerals, but also antibiotics and hormones. Why is this bad? Bacteria found inside of hens can eventually become immune to the antibiotics used. If we then consume this resistant bacteria and become ill, antibiotics won't kill them off and we may remain ill for longer than expected. Hormones, on the other hand, have been shown to increase the risk for cancer, however, research is still underway and a final conclusion has yet to be reached.

Another factor to consider is that free-range eggs contain a higher amount of nutrients. Compared with caged eggs, free-range eggs have 2/3 more vitamin A, triple the amount of vitamin E, between four and six times as much vitamin D, a full seven times more beta-carotene, and twice as much omega-3 fatty acids.

And if you are worried about high amounts of cholesterol found in the egg yolk, this article will be good news for you.


Possible short-term side effects

  • allergic reaction

Possible long-term side effects

  • decreased immunity (cage-raised)
  • weight gain
  • inflammation
  • heart disease

Ingredients to be aware of



Benefits

  • satiating
  • great source of protein
  • increases "good" cholesterol
  • promotes brain health
  • lowers triglycerides
  • promotes heart health
  • promotes eye health
  • may reduce risk of stroke
  • increases energy

Our Wellness Pick (what is this?)

Amazon Fresh Cage-Free Eggs

  • Cage-free hens
  • Grade AA quality
  • 6-count pack
  • Consistent freshness
  • Flexible packaging
Learn More!



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-27-2015
Last updated: 12-15-2023

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-27-2015
Last updated: 12-15-2023




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