Eggs are great for nutrition value
Nutrition experts are saying it’s no coincidence that a growing number of sports stars are using eggs to fuel their success.
Cricketer Chris Gayle smashed records by reaching a triple figure score after just 30 balls following an egg-filled breakfast of a plain omelette and two pancakes, and top athletes such as Jessica Ennis, rugby star Ben Foden and cyclist Bradley Wiggins, all say they eat eggs as part of their training.
Long gone are the notions that eggs are just for body-builders - they are now recognised as a highly nutritious food by growing numbers of sports professionals from all disciplines.
Top sports nutritionist Anita Bean says: “Eggs contain high quality protein and sports stars know that consuming protein pre and post-exercise improves their performance and speeds recovery. Three eggs contain around 20g protein, the optimal amount needed after exercise for muscle repair and recovery. In fact, consuming 20g high quality protein at each meal through the day will help promote recovery for anyone looking to improve their fitness. I would always advise that nutrients come from food sources wherever possible rather than supplements and eggs are undeniably one of the most nutritious foods there is. ”
As well as being protein-packed, eggs are also a natural source of vitamins and minerals. A medium egg contains only 66 calories and is naturally rich in vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B12 and vitamins A and D as well as providing some vitamin E. Not only that, but eggs contain essential minerals and trace elements, including phosphorus, iodine and selenium.
Previous limits on egg consumption due to their cholesterol content have now been lifted and so eggs are a healthy fast food for everyone, especially if combined with vegetables and salads as part of balanced meals.
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