Omega-3 Eggs for Hypothyroidism
With hypothyroidism I am always looking for high quality foods that give me energy and help me maintain weight. Chickens that are fed healthier feeds with seeds containing omega-3 fatty acids actually lay eggs with healthier fats in the yolks. In fact, eating these enriched eggs may improve your cholesterol and blood lipids.
For a long time people have been scared away from eggs due to the high cholesterol. According to Mary J. Shomon, The Thyroid Diet, if you eat Omega-3 eggs you don’t have to limit your egg consumption. Eggs with Omega-3 are considered a near-perfect protein. In studies, eating 2 eggs a day did not raise the LDL “Bad” Cholesterol, and did raise the HDL “Good” Cholesterol. Omega-3 eggs are more expensive than regular eggs, but the health benefits and better flavor justify the cost.
Egg Nutrition
Eggs contain several important nutrients:
- Choline is necessary for healthy cell membranes in all of your body, and will help your body keep homocysteine levels down. Choline is also good for your mental function and memory.
- Selenium is a mineral that your body needs for a strong immune system and it is a powerful antioxidant, its also really good for people with Hypothyroid and Adrenal issues.
- B vitamins folate and riboflavin are necessary for your body to convert the foods you eat into energy.
- Vitamin A is important for good night vision, general cell growth and for healthy skin.
- Vitamin E is an antioxidant that works well with vitamin C and selenium to prevent damage to your body from free radicals.
- Lutein and zeaxanthin are related to vitamin A and are found in the yellow pigment of the egg yolk. Lutein and zeaxanthin are concentrated in the retina of your eye and will help prevent macular degeneration.
Why Omega-3?
It’s been proven time and again that Omega-3 fats are essential for your health. The following is a partial list of diseases that may be prevented or ameliorated with omega-3 fatty acids, in descending order of the strength of the available evidence as perceived by this reviewer:
- Coronary heart disease and stroke
- Essential fatty acid deficiency in infancy (retinal and brain development)
- Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus and nephropathy)
- Crohn disease
- Cancers of the breast, colon, and prostate
- Mild hypertension
- Rheumatoid arthritis (also related to Hypothyroidism)
Other Sources of Omega-3
Eggs are just one source of Omega-3s, and there are other good sources such as Krill Oil. Whenever possible, I prefer to get as much nutrition through foods rather than adding more supplements.
Sources:
Image source: http://www.hephzibahfarms.com/farm-fresh-eggs/