There’s no doubt that eggs are one of the most popular foods in the world. And it’s not surprising because they pack a huge nutritional punch! Eggs are full of essential nutrients which make them a great option for growing kids. In fact, new research suggests that eggs are a great, cheap way to fight malnutrition in developing countries. Studies show that eggs can help prevent stunted growth in children by up to 47%.1
Other Benefits Of Eggs
Here’s how eggs can help meet the needs of your child’s growing body.2
1. Provides Protein
Eggs are one of the most popular sources of protein. They’re cheap, accessible and easy to cook. Each egg contains about 6 grams of protein. Protein provides some of the most basic building blocks for our body and more importantly for your children.
2. Maintains Good Eyesight
Eggs contain antioxidants called lutein and zeaxanthin which are essential for eye health. It reduces the likelihood of macular degeneration, keeping their vision sharp and focused.3
3. Keeps Muscles Healthy
Eggs also contain a nutrient called choline. Choline is essential for healthy muscles and helps maintain heart health as well. It also keeps your brain functioning properly.4
4. Helps Brain Development
Omega-3 fats are great for brain development and cognitive functioning. This will keep your children’s brains sharp and active. It can help improve their memory as well as their thinking skills.5
5. Maintains Bone Health
It’s said that eggs these days contain more vitamin D than they did 10 years ago. Make use of this because vitamin D is important for several bodily functions. It plays an essential role in maintaining bone health. This means that with regular consumption, kids may be less likely to develop things like osteoporosis or arthritis in their adult years.6
6. Strengthens Hair And Nails
Eggs contain amino acids which help maintain healthy hair and nails.7
7. Keeps Cholesterol In Check.
Eggs have a bad reputation for being high in cholesterol but the truth is that they contain the right balance of cholesterol as well as significant amounts of other nutrients. They boost levels of HDL. If your child’s diet is otherwise healthy (that means they’re not constantly guzzling processed snacks high in sugar, saturated fat, and sodium), eggs are not harmful at all. Kids and adults can safely eat one egg a day as part of a healthy diet and exercise regime.8
Caution: Make sure your kids don’t eat eggs raw or partially cooked. The risk of infection from salmonella is always present. This means no raw cake batter or cookie dough. The safest forms of eggs are hard boiled, poached and scrambled. These are also healthy ways to cook them compared to frying.
If you still need convincing, remember that eggs are cheap, accessible and easy for kids to eat, especially if they are hard-boiled. Perhaps, you can make their afternoon snack a hard boiled egg, rather than letting them eat packaged, processed foods. Don’t underestimate just how nutritious eggs can be for your children. Include them in various dishes or serve them on their own.
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