Pictured left to right, Pancake, Sparkles, and Parmesan. Pancake is our 9-year old hen who is still laying eggs! She loves blueberries, grapes, sweet potatoes, and leftover corn on the cob. Really, she will eat anything!

Throughout the world, eggs are one of the most affordable, versatile, and nutrient dense foods. Once controversial, due to the cholesterol content, eggs can now be considered an important part of a healthy diet when eaten in moderation. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and other essential nutrients including choline, which the brain and nervous system require for the regulation of mood, memory, and the formation of the membranes that surround the cells.

Consider these specific health benefits that come with including eggs, and egg whites, in your diet:

Brain Health: Eggs are considered a neuroprotective food. They contain vitamins and minerals that are necessary for the development and functioning of the nervous system and the brain.

Immunity Support: Eggs contain vitamin A, vitamin B-12, and selenium, which are all important to the health of the immune system.

Protein Power: The protein in eggs is a simple form that is important to maintaining and repairing body tissues, including muscle. Egg white and yolk are both rich sources of protein. About 13% of the edible part of an egg is protein.

Healthy Pregnancy: Eggs contain folate, which is a nutrient known to support the development of a baby and protect from potential birth defects. (The synthetic form of folate is folic acid, which is found in vitamins).

Healthy Eyes: Lutein and zeaxanthin are just two of the important nutrients found in eggs that help protect the eyes from macular degeneration.

Many municipalities now allow you to raise chickens in your yard.  Talk about fresh eggs!  Pancake (also known as Red), one of Paulette’s hens, is pictured in the photo above.  Raising chickens is a fun activity to do with kids too.  Check our your city’s rules!