When we think of eggs, we normally conjure up images of a white or brown-colored chicken egg. For sure, chicken eggs are an amazing addition to any diet. Here are just a few of the amazing health benefits of eggs.
- Eggs contain lutein and zeaxanthin, both of which help reduce the risk of developing cataracts.
- One egg contains 6 grams of protein and all 9 essential amino acids.
- One egg yolk contains 300 micrograms of choline, a nutrient that helps keep the brain, nervous system and cardiovascular system functioning properly.
- According to a Harvard School of Public Health study, consuming eggs on a regular basis may prevent blood clots, heart attacks and strokes.
- Eggs promote healthy hair and nails.
- Eggs contain naturally-occurring vitamin D.
- Women who eat eggs may reduce their risk of breast cancer by up to 44%.
But, chicken eggs are not the only eggs around with an amazing nutritional profile. If you feel like it is time for a change, why not indulge in one of these three super eggs? Take a look at how they compare to the standard chicken egg.
Duck Eggs
Chefs all over the world love duck eggs for their large, brilliant yellow yolks and rich taste. Duck eggs have just a few more calories than chicken eggs, but are higher in protein, vitamin and mineral content, and have more cholesterol.
Eggs from ducks also have a higher yolk to white ratio than chicken eggs, so if you like more yolk, duck eggs are the way to go. Bakers love the fact that duck eggs have more fat than chicken eggs because it makes cakes rise high, and meringues stand firm.
You can substitute one duck egg for one chicken egg in any recipe even though duck eggs are bigger. Foods that are baked with duck eggs are richer than those baked with chicken eggs. Duck eggs are fabulous for gluten free baking because they add richness that is lost when gluten is taken away. Be careful not to overcook duck eggs if you fry or poach them, the whites can become tough quickly. Be prepared to spend around $7/dozen for organic duck eggs.
Quail Eggs
Although they are tiny, quail eggs pack a tremendous nutritional punch, in fact, their nutritional value is three to four times greater than that of chicken eggs. Chicken eggs contain eleven proteins and quail eggs contain thirteen. Quail eggs also contain 140 percent of the daily recommended amount of vitamin B1, while chicken eggs have 50 percent.
Additionally, quail eggs provide five times as much potassium and iron as chicken eggs. Those who have allergies to chicken eggs would have good luck with quail eggs that do not cause allergies but, in fact, reduce allergy symptoms due to an ovomucoid protein that they contain.
Additionally, quail eggs are known to help fight against a number of health conditions, such as stomach ulcers and anemia, and they also boost immunity and improve digestion. In addition, they can remove heavy metals from the body, prevent and remove kidney and gallbladder stones and increase cognitive functioning.
In China, quail eggs are used to treat asthma, diabetes and tuberculosis. Quails are resistant to infections, so after a quick wash in boiling water, they can be eaten. It is recommended that you eat 3-5 raw quail eggs to promote a strong immune system and boost metabolism. Some people enjoy them pickled or boiled, as well. You can find quail eggs for around $6/dozen.
Emu Eggs
If you are familiar with emus, you know that they are extremely large birds that are native to Australia. Now, while we would expect a large bird to lay a large egg, you may not necessarily think that it would be a large green egg. What emus lay looks more like giant, thick-skinned avocados than eggs. The rough texture of the eggs makes them almost reptilian like. Not only are these eggs a popular delicacy, but the shell is commonly used for egg carving and decorating.
Now, this is one egg that you won’t find in your average neighborhood supermarket. In fact, emu eggs are considered exotic and can sell for up to $20 each. However, if you are lucky enough to find a local source for emu eggs, you should make it a point to give one a try.
There has been a steady increase in demand for emu eggs over the last several years as more people are discovering their amazing rich taste and nutritional value. One emu egg has about the same nutritional bang as 8 to 12 chicken eggs, and is very rich in protein and vitamin C.The taste, we hear, is very similar to chicken eggs, only a little richer.
Omelette anyone?
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.allquails.com/Home_Page.html
http://www.freshquaileggs.com/2010/05/05/health-benefits-of-quail-eggs
http://oit.ncsu.edu/infoplease/10-health-benefits-eating-eggs
http://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20120305/murray-hill-gramercy/emu-eggs-have-adventurous-chefs-mouths-watering-at-union-square-market
