Make Healthy Eating Quick and Simple with Eggs
Eggs, often celebrated for their simplicity, versatility, and nutrition, can now proudly wear the “healthy” badge according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse, containing an excellent or good source of eight essential nutrients that support health at every age. They are particularly known for being one of the highest quality proteins available, playing a vital role in muscle health and overall wellness. Eggs also contribute lutein, which supports eye health, and are rich in choline, a nutrient that helps support brain health at all ages and life stages. Additionally, research suggests that eggs can enhance the absorption of nutrients from other healthy foods, like vegetables, making them a perfect partner for healthy eating.
Are Eggs Healthy?
The FDA’s healthy definition focuses on promoting healthy eating patterns and relies on specific criteria to evaluate foods that help Americans meet nutritional needs. The FDA’s healthy designation reaffirms the egg’s role in supporting the health of American families, with nutritional benefits for everyone. Eggs offer a good source of high-quality protein and contribute nutrients to the diet that Americans don’t get enough of, like vitamin D and choline. With this update, eggs are now in good company with fruits and vegetables on the FDA’s list of healthy foods.
Additionally, eggs can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet for healthy adults according to the American Heart Association. For only 70 calories, eggs are an excellent or good source of eight essential nutrients, making them a perfect complement to any eating pattern including Mediterranean, DASH, low-carb, and plant-based.
As a dietitian, I am thrilled that eggs officially qualify as “healthy” in the FDA’s updated definition! Eggs are a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including high-quality protein, choline, vitamin B12, iodine, biotin, and selenium.
Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD, CLEC, CPT, Egg Enthusiast*There are so many delicious and nutritious ways to enjoy eggs! Try a veggie-packed omelet (I like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, and tomatoes in mine!) or avocado toast on whole grain bread with an egg cooked your way on top. You can also pre-make a batch of egg muffins with your favorite chopped veggies to heat and eat on busy days or enhance your salads by adding sliced hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost. Eggs pair well with so many other healthy foods and there are countless ways to incorporate them into a healthy diet.
More on the FDA’s Recent Announcement about Healthy Foods
The FDA’s new “healthy” claim will guide families toward delicious, nutrient-packed choices that fuel healthy living, and will empower consumers to embrace eggs like never before.
*Quotes are provided by paid partners. All opinions are their own.