Change often ends in a positive! The corona virus continues to impact and change everyone’s life and dealing with change can be daunting and uncomfortable for many. Change often puts us out of our comfort zone and it is then when we are forced to be brave and take next steps. Steps that we take having evaluated what is most important to us in life. That opportunity to take stock and evaluate what’s important in your life, is a gift. I don’t know what the journey will look like for each of us, but I personally believe the outcome of this next chapter of change will bring us closer together as a community, and the old-fashioned values of family first and helping one another and the planet will emerge stronger than ever.
At times of stress a lot of us tend to reach for carbs such as bread, cakes, biscuits etc. This maybe because eating carbs boosts serotonin, a brain chemical that may be somewhat depleted when you undergo change (stress). It’s ok to soothe yourself with comfort foods in moderation. Moderation being the key word. Increased use of carbs and alcohol at times of stress can sneak up on you. At our HYPOXI-Studio we have helped lots of clients recover their lockdown damage and get their bodies in the best state of health that they can remember! Just the best reward ever. One way you can help yourself at home is to track what you are eating and write it down. Keep a log, you might be surprised, and it might make you think whether you really do want that second biscuit or glass of wine. I’d really hope an egg features in your food log. Here’s why ….
One of my favourite foods that I feel doesn’t get the recognition it deserves is the EGG! Eggs are packed with nutrients that can significantly boost your mental and physical health. Now is most definitely a good time to get poaching, boiling and scrambling! Read on for 10 good reasons to love your eggs!
Eggs help you absorb more nutrients
A boiled egg on your salad can increase your absorption of powerful antioxidants, known as carotenoids, from the vegetables by up to ninefold. (Study from Purdue University, US).
Eggs could stave off diabetes
A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland showed regular egg consumption could cut the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to a third. Researchers believe the effect may be due to the fact that eggs contain many important nutrients that have a positive influence on glucose metabolism and low grade inflammation.
Eggs can make you feel more alert and awake and even help with a hangover!
Cysteine, the amino acid found in eggs, has been found to counteract the toxic effects of acetaldehyde, the chemical produced by the body as it metabolises alcohol. Acetaldehyde is the cause of headache and nausea experienced in hangover!. Research from Cambridge University also shows egg protein can help you feel more alert and awake.
Eggs boost your bones and immune system
Eggs are one of the best dietary sources of vitamin D. Eggs, along with oily fish. Vitamin D is responsible for optimum bone health. Recent research has shown eggs now contain 70% more vitamin D than they did back in the 80s. Vitamin D is great for your immune too.
Eggs can lift your mood
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, shows eggs are a key source of mood nutrients, such as folate, iron, protein and vitamin D. These magic ingredients can help lift the spirits.
Fuller for longer after an egg
Feeling fuller for longer will mean you will likely be less tempted for unhealthy snacking. Eggs at lunch could stave off any afternoon moments of weakness before your final meal of the day. A medium size egg is only c78 calories so really packs a punch of benefits and plays a great part in weight management. A great source of power for your body from relatively little calorie intake.
Eggs could lower blood pressure
A component of egg white may help reduce blood pressure, according to research presented to the American Chemical Society. High blood pressure is a risk factor for serious health conditions such as heart disease and stroke. The evidence shows there is a substance in egg white that can reduce blood pressure about as much as a low dose of Captopril, a high blood pressure drug.
Eggs are a good source of vitamin B12
Just one medium sized egg contains a very impressive 56% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12. B12 contributes to the formation of red blood cells and normal energy metabolism, as well as healthy functioning of the immune and nervous systems.
Eggs may protect your sight
Eggs are an important source of the eye pigments, lutein and zeaxanthin, which are sometimes known as “nature’s sunglasses”. The reason? They protect an area of the retina, known as the macula, from damaging chemical reactions involved in light detection. For this reason, eggs can play a significant role in the fight against macular degeneration, the age-related eye condition that can lead to blindness.
Eggs are a cost effective protein source
Compared to meat and fish which are rich in protein, the egg is one of the cheapest but most nutrient rich sources of protein. Eggs are also richest in the essential nutrients: vitamin A, folate, biotin and iodine.
You owe it to yourself, if you aren’t already doing it, treat yourself to an egg or two! Make it part of your weekly routine. Add it to your salads. If you want any cooking tips feel free to get in touch. Covid has not gone away but neither have we! Wear a mask, keep our distance and keep hand washing and then we can enjoy the freedoms we now have safely. Life is for living. Seize the day, and make it count. And don’t forget the power of an egg!
I would love to hear of any changes you make for the better, so please share them with me on dianne@rejuvenateathypoxi.co.uk.