Easter time is here again and our thoughts turn to eggs. Here is some information on eggs of the healthier variety.
Eggs are a good source of protein and contain vitamins and minerals. They are also easy to prepare.
How many eggs?
There is no recommended limit on how many eggs people should eat. Eggs are a good choice as part of a healthy balanced diet. However, remember that it is important to eat a variety of foods each week to get the wide range of nutrients we need.
Eggs are a good source of:
- protein
- vitamin D
- vitamin A
- vitamin B2
- iodine
Eggs can make a really healthy meal. Why not try one of these for your breakfast, lunch or evening meal:
- Spanish omelettes served with steamed vegetables or a salad.
- Poached or scrambled eggs and baked beans served on wholegrain toast.
- Boiled eggs chopped into a summer salad.
Fried eggs are higher in fat than boiled, poached or scrambled eggs, but there is nothing wrong with having them occasionally. If you do want a fried egg, use oil that is high in unsaturated fat such as sunflower oil.
Eggs and cholesterol
Eggs contain cholesterol and high cholesterol levels in our blood increases our risk of heart disease.
However, the cholesterol we get from our food – and this includes eggs – has less effect on the amount of cholesterol in our blood than the amount of saturated fat we eat. So, if you are eating a balanced diet you only need to cut down on eggs if you have been told to do so by your GP or dietitian. If your GP has told you to watch your cholesterol levels, your priority should be cutting down on saturated fats.
