Eggs - Protein Power House, Plus More!
This has been a burning debate among health professionals and a common question from the general public for years. The evidence is now clear that eggs really are healthy! Not only that - they're also a great source of high quality protein. Getting enough protein is very important for building bones and muscle, as well as maintaining good overall health.
How Much Protein Does One Egg Contain?
The average egg contains about 6–7 grams of protein.
However, the protein content does depend on the size of the egg. Here’s how much protein different sizes of eggs contain:
- Small egg (38 grams): 4.9 grams of protein
- Medium egg (44 grams): 5.7 grams of protein
- Large egg (50 grams): 6.5 grams of protein
- Extra-large egg (56 grams): 7.3 grams of protein
- Jumbo egg (63 grams): 8.2 grams of protein
Protein Content of the Yolk and White
People often think that protein is only found in the egg whites, since they consist of little other than proteins. The egg yolks are known to be where almost all the nutrients and fat are found. However, in addition to these nutrients, the yolk also contains up to about half of the protein content of the egg.
In a large egg that contains about 7 grams of protein, 3 grams will be coming from the yolk and 4 grams from the white. Therefore, eating the entire egg is the way to get the most protein and nutrients.
Other Health Benefits of Eggs
Eggs are among the healthiest and most nutritious foods you can eat. They are also cheap and very easy to prepare. Eggs are relatively low in calories, with one large hard-boiled egg containing only about 77 calories.
Despite being low in calories, they are a balanced source of almost every nutrient you need. One such nutrient is choline, which many people are lacking in their diet.
Choline is important for many processes in the body. In fact, a lack of it may affect brain and heart health, and has been linked to an increased risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy.
Aside from their nutrient content, eggs have also been linked with numerous health benefits, including benefits related to weight loss and weight maintenance.
The Bottom Line
- Eggs are a healthy protein sources
- An average-sized egg contains about 6–7 grams of protein
- Aside from their impressive protein content, eggs are low in calories, relatively inexpensive, high in nutrients and weight loss friendly.
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