Eggs are not only rich in protein, but they also contain B-complex vitamins. Although there has always been debates over their effect on heart problems, recent research has shown that moderate egg consumption—up to one a day—does not increase chances of contracting heart diseases.

Also, the majority of the eggs fats are ‘good’ fats (monounsaturated) of which are essential for a healthy balanced diet. Eggs are something that we eat almost every day, and we all know that they are delicious. And we need them in our diets. Here are 11 things you never knew about eggs, including some fun facts and its health benefits.

1. HIGH IN B-COMPLEX VITAMINS

The yolk of the egg is high in B-complex vitamins, specifically choline which plays an important role in cell metabolism and nervous system function, including brain development.

2. COOKED EGG PROTEIN IS MORE READILY ABSORBED BY THE BODY

Another common misunderstanding is that raw eggs have a higher protein potency than cooked eggs of which cooking ruins the proteins. However this is incorrect because cooked egg protein is actually more readily absorbed by the body.

3. HOW AN EGG COMPARES WITH DONUT

An average medium egg has an energy value of around 66-70 kilocalories (277 kilojoules) compared to one original glazed doughnut of the same weight being 160 kilocalories.

4. EGG WHITE IS RICH IN PROTEIN

The egg white is rich in protein, an essential nutrient that every person needs to maintain a strong and healthy body. Protein is needed for the growth and repair of all body cells and tissues.

5. FOR THOSE WHO WORK OUT A LOT, EATING 3-5 EGGS IS A CHEAPER ALTERNATIVE THAN DRINKING PROTEIN SCOOPS

Gym go-ers take note! One cooked egg will provide you with roughly 6-7g of protein. Protein scoops range from 25-30g depending on your intention, meaning 3-5 eggs will provide you with a cheaper alternative!

6. NO RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE AMOUNT OF EGGS CONSUMED AND HEART DISEASE

A danger to your heart? Fear not! Studies have shown that there is no relationship between the amount of eggs consumed and coronary heart disease and strokes.

7. WHICH IS THE BETTER TYPE OF EGG?

Eggs can be categorised into different types depending on the chicken’s living conditions. Pasteurised or free range eggs are better, meaning during the chicken’s life they have been able to roam around a farm to live a healthier life which in turn means their eggs are jam packed full of goodness.

On the contrary, cages hens have had less of an active lifestyle and have squeezed into small cages for the duration of their lives.

Consider this, athlete vs a couch potato. Which is healthier?

8. THE MAJORITY OF THE EGG FATS ARE ‘GOOD’ FATS’

The general misconception with eggs is that they are very high in fat. Around 9% of the eggs content is fat of which is almost entirely in the yolk. The majority of the eggs fats are ‘good’ fats (monounsaturated) of which are essential for a healthy balanced diet.

9. BROWN VS. WHITE SHELLS

An egg’s shell colour doesn’t indicate the quality or nutritional value of an egg, but rather the breed of the hen that laid it. Hens with white feathers tend to lay white eggs and hens with red feathers tend to lay brown eggs.

10. HOW TO TEST FOR THE FRESHNESS OF AN EGG

A good way to test for freshness of an egg is to float it in water. The ones that float are bad, yet the ones that sink are lovely and fresh. Reason being is that the shells, over time, will allow air into it. So the more air it has in it the more buoyant it is thus not as fresh.

11. HOW TO TELL IF AN EGG IS RAW OR HAS BEEN COOKED

To tell if an egg is raw or has been cooked hard, spin it! If the egg spins easily and smoothly, it is hard-cooked. However if it wobbles whilst trying to spin, it is raw.

About the writer: 
Lewis Clarke is a UK registered osteopath. He moved to Singapore in 2013 to appreciate a different culture and to experience the fast-paced Singaporean lifestyle. He has a passion for sports and specialises in sports injuries, pain management and exercise prescription. He frequently treats common conditions like back pain and neck pain as well as deal with more complicated cases like arthritis, slipped disc, disc bulge, scoliosis and hip impingements. His aim is to provide drug-free treatments in a safe effective manner. For more information, go to www.orchardhealthclinic.com/.