We all want to stay healthy, and as we age, many of us focus on keeping our minds sharp. Recent studies have explored the ways in which our nutritional choices can impact our neurological health, with eggs emerging as one of the foods that help support healthy brains. The foods we eat every day can have a considerable effect on the wellbeing of our brains and can impact both short-and long-term brain cognitive function. Here’s how eggs build healthy brains, and support our neurological wellbeing. 

Eggs have long been a topic of research and interest in the scientific community, with researchers and doctors studying the health benefits of eggs.  Contemporary research has found that eggs contain several valuable nutrients critical for development at any age. Eggs are sources of nutrients such as protein, vitamin D, choline, biotin, vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, riboflavin and pantothenic acid. These nutrients are important for supporting bone health, muscle health, and very importantly, neurological development.

Essential for developing children and babies

The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommends that babies and toddlers should be fed eggs as part of a balanced and healthy diet, with eggs offering vital support for young children’s growing brains. The US publication recommended that eggs should form part of the diets of infants and toddlers, as well as pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. Eggs reportedly contain several of the key nutrients which are critical for babies during the period when brain development is occurring rapidly.  

Choline for Brain Health

The high amounts of choline found in eggs is one of the reasons that experts also support the intake of eggs. Choline is a nutrient which has been praised as vital nutritional support for neurological development throughout all life stages.  One egg supplies the daily recommended choline intake for babies and toddlers. For pregnant women, eating two eggs would supply more than half of the choline intake recommended for daily consumption.  One of the reasons that choline is important is because choline supports a variety of normal bodily functions, including metabolism, DNA synthesis and nervous system functioning. Current research suggests that many people do not consume enough choline.

Vitamin B

Eggs are high in vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid. Vitamin B has been linked with reduced levels of cognitive decline. Studies have found that the consumption of vitamin B can even slow down brain atrophy in older patients with cognitive impairments. 

The bottom line

Eggs are a good source of many of the nutrients and vitamins our bodies need to stay healthy, and to keep our brains in tip-top shape. Other foods that also have brain-boosting properties include blueberries, nuts, fish, pumpkin seeds, dark leafy vegetables and turmeric. 

Note: Please remember to consult your doctor regarding any health or medical related changes or issues.  This article does not constitute medical advice.