Sometimes it is confusing to figure out if eggs are a healthy food choice or not.  I have heard many discussions with opinions ranging on both ends of the continuum.  My answer when asked about eating eggs is, healthy eggs? heavens yes.

One of my nieces and her family live on a small farm and have many animals.  They have a horse, cows, goat, sheep, lambs, bunnies, ducks, dogs, cats and chickens!  The chickens lay tons of eggs and I am so happy when I get to visit and come home with some of their farm fresh eggs. Nothing beats the deep yellow of eggs right off the farm.

The American Heart Association has changed their thoughts on eggs over the years.  20 years ago, they told us not to eat more than 3 eggs a week due to heart disease.  Now the AHA says that the health benefits of eggs outweigh the risks. They say that eating eggs with a heart-healthy diet is acceptable.

Here are some of the health benefits of eating eggs

1. They are a great source of high-quality protein.  One egg gives you about 6 grams of protein in your diet.  Protein is a building block and will help your bones and muscles get stronger. It not only builds tissue in our body; it also helps to repair it when it gets damaged.

• There are many healthy vitamins and micronutrients in eggs.  Eggs contain a vitamin A, for your skin and eye health; vitamin D, for strong bones and teeth; vitamin E, which is an antioxidant; and vitamin B₁₂, which helps keep your blood cells and nerves healthy.  Eggs are also a source of selenium which may be beneficial to you immune system.  

• Eggs help increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or the “good” cholesterol.  High levels of HDL can help reduce the risk of heart disease.  Eggs are also known for their low or LDL “bad” cholesterol.  This can put heart health at risk.  The yolk contains all the nutrients, and the white contains the grams of protein.  That is why eggs in moderation are recommended along with a heart healthy diet.

There are so many different ways to enjoyed eggs

• Fired
• Scrambled
• Poached
• Quiche
• Egg Casserole
• Egg salad
• Etc.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy a fried egg is in the middle of grilled vegetables.  I grill enough vegetables so that there are some leftovers for lunch. It is delicious! The egg might be one of the most perfect foods.  It is healthy, easy to fix, full of vitamins and nutrients and good to eat while living on a budget.