For years, mankind has used eggs in their diets across the world. Hard-boiled eggs are cooked directly in their shells. Eggs are healthy foods and do promote good health, but if you are an adult who is not in good health, eating too many eggs may not be good for your health.
History of Hard-Boiled Eggs
Egyptian and Chinese records indicate fowls were laying eggs back in 1400 B.C. Since 600 B.C, Europe had domesticated hens. In the United States, the Single-Comb White Leghorn is the most common laying hen. 45 billion eggs are eaten by consumers each year.
Eggs As a Medicinal Food
High in vitamins and nutrients, eggs are also a good source of protein and low in calories. The American Egg Board indicates eggs are a great food to assist you with weight management, increase your muscle strength, enhance brain function, aid in healthy pregnancy’s and promote eye health.
The Benefits of Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are good sources of protein and selenium as well as good sources of riboflavin, phosphorus and vitamin B12. One large hard-boiled egg will give you the following percentages of the daily-recommended intake:
- Vitamin A: six percent
- Calcium: two percent
- Iron: three percent
One hard-boiled egg is 77 calories.
Eggs and Cholesterol Risks
Eggs do have a high amount of cholesterol, which is only a concern if you have high cholesterol or if you have risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends you use egg whites in your diets or cholesterol–free eggs. The yolks in eggs contain the cholesterol.
Cholesterol is made naturally in your body and too much increases your risk of cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association indicates cardiovascular disease is still the number one cause of deaths in the United States.
Misconceptions of Eggs and Their Health Risks
While many people believe eggs cause cardiovascular disease, this is not really the case. Stephen Kritchevsky, Ph.D and director of the J.Paul Sticht Center on Aging at Wake Forest University, says if you are a healthy adult, you should not be concerned that eating eggs will cause you heart disease. A study by the American Egg Association showed 24 percent of healthy adults still avoid eggs due to cholesterol fears.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
Incredible Egg. "History of Egg Production: From Ancient Times" (accessed October 6, 2010)
American Egg Board. "Eggs in the News"(accessed October 6, 2010)
Self Nutrition Data. "Egg, whole, cooked, hard-boiled"(accessed October 6, 2010)
American Heart Association. "Cooking for Lower Cholesterol "(accessed October 6, 2010)
American Egg Board. "Cracking the Cholesterol Myth"(accessed October 6, 2010)
Tamara Laschinsky - Health and wellness advocate, author, researcher and owner of Natural e GREEN: Natural Health & Wellness store!
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