Are egg yolks good for you? When enjoyed in moderation they are definitely a healthy part of a well-balanced diet. Rich in nutrients such as the B vitamins, vitamin D and iron, they are an invaluable source of vitamins and minerals. They are also a high-quality source of protein. Get the real egg yolk nutrition facts, including the reality of the high cholesterol content. While whole eggs shouldn’t necessarily be a daily meal, there is good reason to enjoy them several times a week.
Nutrients in the Yolk
What nutrients are found in egg yolks? This food is an excellent source of several B vitamins, including vitamin B2, B5 and B12. Vitamin B2 is used for the formation of red blood cells and is important for antibody production. It also aids in eye fatigue and the absorption of other nutrients. Necessary for the production of adrenal hormones and antibodies, vitamin B5 is known as the anti-stress vitamin. Plenty of vitamin B12 is important for the growth and protection of the nervous system.
Egg yolk nutrition also includes vitamin D for healthy bones. They supply a small amount of iron, which is used for the production of hemoglobin and the oxygenation of red blood cells. Other key nutrients include biotin for hair and nail health and choline for cell membranes.
Health Benefits of Eating Eggs
There are many good sources of these same vitamins and minerals, why choose egg yolks for their nutrition? The combination of nutrients in eggs is ideal for brain and nervous system health, with compounds for the development of neurotransmitters, for the integrity of brain cells and for the growth of the nervous system. Rich in protein, as well as key vitamins for hair and nails, eggs are an important beauty food. They also support healthy eyes, not only because of the vitamin B2 content, but also because they are a good source of the antioxidant lutein.
Egg Yolks and Cholesterol
According to the egg yolk nutrition facts, this is an excellent food to include in your diet on a regular basis. What about the high cholesterol? There have been many warnings that foods that are high in cholesterol are not good for people who may be at risk for heart disease. While no one should eat eggs, or any other food in excess, in moderation they are still beneficial, even with the high dose of cholesterol.
Research has shown that eating a diet that is high in saturated fat is responsible for changing blood lipid levels, not actually consuming cholesterol-rich foods, such as egg yolks and shrimp. Also, there is a protein in eggs that helps to reduce blood clots, which is a good thing for people who are worried about clogged arteries.
How much is a healthy amount? Eating a serving of two eggs, one to three times a week is good for you. For people who are on a strict low-fat diet or who already have heart disease, talk to your doctor about how many eggs are right for you. How you enjoy egg yolks can also affect the health of this food. Go for boiled eggs rather than fried. Enjoy your protein with fresh fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes and avocados. Serve a boiled or poached egg over fresh greens rather than with fried bacon, butter and cheese. In moderation and conjunction with other healthy, nutrient-packed foods, egg yolks are good for you.
References
Balch, Phyllis A. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing.” Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).