This is what happens to the body when you eat a raw egg daily

Many people like to have eggs for breakfast, which is enjoyed in many ways according to personal choices and preferences. In India, eggs are enjoyed as curry, omelette, fried rice, sunny side ups, scotch eggs, wraps, toast, soft-boiled, sandwiches, bhurji, and also in pancakes, muffins, and other desserts.

But some people prefer to eat raw eggs. “Health enthusiasts or even gym goers eat raw eggs to meet their daily protein intake while focusing on building their bodies,” said Jinal Patel, dietitian, Zynova Shalby Hospital.

But are raw eggs healthy? Before finding out the answer to that, let’s understand more about the nutritional profile of eggs.

Why should you have eggs?

Eggs contain essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin, B5, vitamin B12, vitamin B9, protein, prosperity, antioxidants, and selenium. “It also contains healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, and EPA. Egg yolk has the most fat content present in the egg. This is why certain people avoid eating yolk and focus on eating egg whites for maximum protein,” said Patel.

It is important to note that fats are essential and needed by the body for various functions such as promoting cell growth, supporting the brain and nerve system, promoting hormonal production, and also aiding the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients. “The unsaturated fat content in eggs is good for your heart health. Some believe that eggs help in lowering bad cholesterol levels and raise good cholesterol levels. However, eating a raw egg is a no-no. It can cause further health problems,” said Patel.

But why?

According to Patel, it is a common myth that raw eggs are good for health. “People are advised to avoid eating raw eggs due to salmonella risk (gastrointestinal illness). Some tend to eat raw eggs on an empty stomach, without consulting an expert. It can cause digestive problems like stomach pain, cramps, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas and even food poisoning in some,” said Patel.

Agreeing, Dr Vikas Jindal, Consultant, dept of gastroenterology, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi said that eating raw eggs increases the risk of foodborne infection, especially from Salmonella bacteria, which can cause “very serious gastrointestinal upset”. Additionally, avidin, a protein found in raw egg whites, can bind to biotin (vitamin B7) and, if ingested in excessive numbers, may eventually result in biotin insufficiency.

“Biotin is an essential nutrient found in cooked eggs. It cannot be absorbed by your body when raw as it contains avidin. When eggs are cooked, the avidin is removed which helps your body absorb biotin,” said Patel.

Here’s how your gut health is affected (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Raw eggs have a strong odour and might gross out a few, Patel warned. “One can find the taste and texture of raw eggs odd and unpleasant causing vomiting or puckish feeling. Raw eggs are harder to digest compared to cooked eggs and may cause inflammation, swelling, breathing difficulties, and hives,” mentioned Patel.

She added that eating 1 raw egg every day can put significant stress on your immune system as it has to effectively combat bacteria like salmonella. “People with allergies should avoid eating eggs in any form. Specific allergy tests can help you identify whether you are allergic to eggs or not,” said Patel.

It’s essential to use pasteurised eggs, which have been heat-treated to eliminate dangerous bacteria, in order to eliminate such risks. Despite the potential benefits, many health experts recommend cooking eggs to ensure safety while still providing nutritional advantages. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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