• Published on: Oct 17, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

What Are The Health Benefits Of Eggs?

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What are the Health Benefits of Eggs?

One large whole egg - 0g Sugar,6g Protein, 200mg Omega-3 Fatty Acids, 11% Vitamin A, 12% Vitamin E, 13% Zinc, 16% Selenium. 1/2 of the RDA Calcium & Iron. It's also a natural whole food with Lutein and Zeaxanthin for eye protection. Plus, it works well in cooking because it promotes browning which is what makes bread and other items crispy on the outside while remaining moist on the inside. It's also inexpensive if you find them bulk or straight from farm to table at your local farmer's market!

Eggs are a great source of protein, low in both fats and carbohydrates. They contain vitamin A, B1, B2, B6 and D as well as selenium which is an often-overlooked mineral that is essential for good immune function. In addition, eggs also contain the minerals phosphorus and zinc to supply your body with energy.

Eggs provide all nine amino acids required by the human body that cannot be produced on its own - it is important to get this amino from a variety of sources throughout the day! One large egg contains 186mg of choline which aids in neurological function & brain development while also giving you energy through phospholipids needed for cell membranes in neural tissue.

Eggs are high in cholesterol and there is not much indirect evidence that proves eggs are healthy. Nutritionists agree that the effects of cholesterol depend largely on what type of diet it's coming from; saturated or unsaturated fat. Eating large amounts of saturated fat (due to egg yolks) can lead to an unhealthy imbalance in HDL cholesterol levels, which can increase your risk for heart disease.

Eggs are high in "choline" (a B Vitamin), but choline deficiency is rare because it's found in many foods, including meat and vegetables. It also enhances brain function by assisting with communication between nerves cells in the brain. Eggs are a great source of protein. Especially because they come packaged with other essential nutrients like choline and vitamin B12, magnesium and riboflavin, selenium and lutein, biotin, and folate.

Eggs have been proven to lower the body's cholesterol levels, promote healthy skin and hair; they are an excellent source of protein for vegetarians or vegans; they can contain more Omega-3 fatty acids than beef, which is important if you're not getting enough in your diet (and most people aren't). High dietary quality of eggs is associated with an improved nutritional status, reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and colorectal cancer. The study revealed that every additional 100 g of daily egg intake was linked to a 6% reduction in the probability of metabolic syndrome-related events (e.g., coronary artery disease or type 2 diabetes) over 7 years' follow-up.

The health benefits of eggs include protection against low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation, protection against lipid peroxidation of LDL, and potential association with lower levels of blood cholesterol. Research has shown that the fat in eggs is an essential nutrient for specific brain cells. Healthy fats are important for many physiological functions including cognitive function, cell membranes, and hormone production; these healthy fats are also found in egg yolk. Recent studies suggest that healthy fats might be helpful to prevent some age-related diseases like Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Eggs contain complete protein and choline, both nutrients that the body doesn't produce so they must be obtained from food. Eggs also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain and heart health. Other than the obvious high in cholesterol and high in calories, eggs offer a well-rounded package of nutrition in just one food! They're loaded with vitamins D and B12, iron calcium zinc magnesium selenium potassium, manganese riboflavin vitamin A lutein omega 3s - all things we need to get from our diet. But I think these 3 take the cake: First is amino acids which make up proteins. The omegas found within eggs also make it healthy.

Eggs are invaluable when attempting to build strong bones because they contain both sulfur and phosphorus in a very good balance. Sulfur is needed for the formation of collagen, which is a fibrous protein essential for bone strength, while phosphorus plays a crucial role in the formation of bones themselves.

Eggs are a good source of protein and contain all the amino acids our bodies need. They're rich in vitamins A, D, E and K. It's also a good source of iron, riboflavin, Vitamin B6 and B12. Eggs also provide significant amounts of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), selenium, and choline for healthy kidneys, liver, and brain cell development respectively. In addition to all these nutrients eggs help with fetal growth during pregnancy. Choline helps pregnant woman's unborn babies process fats from their mother's diet which can result in reduced risk of cardio issues later in life such as cardiovascular disease or obesity risks while providing support for their developing brains and muscle tissue.

Eggs are great if you are looking for a high-protein breakfast option. As with any food, it is important to consider the saturated fat content in eggs which can be greatly reduced if you opt for egg whites instead of whole eggs when cooking or eating. Eggs provide essential nutrients that include protein, phosphorus, selenium, and vitamins A, B12, and D in addition to vital choline -which is required by the body to synthesize acetylcholine which controls memory function. Choline may also help reduce cardiovascular risk factors, lower blood pressure, and control blood lipids by reducing their level of purity!

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Sadness is a normal emotional

Difference Between Sadness and Depression: Understanding Normal Emotions vs Mental Illness

Feeling low or unhappy is a part of being human. However, not all low moods are the same. Many people confuse sadness with depression, which can delay proper support and treatment. Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is crucial for mental health awareness, early intervention and reducing stigma.

In India, mental health conditions are often misunderstood, with emotional distress frequently dismissed as temporary sadness.

 

What Is Sadness?

Sadness is a normal human emotion.

It usually occurs due to:

  • loss or disappointment

  • relationship issues

  • failure or stress

  • temporary life challenges

Sadness serves a psychological purpose, allowing individuals to process emotions and adapt.

 

Key Characteristics of Sadness

Sadness is:

  • situational

  • temporary

  • emotionally painful but manageable

  • responsive to support and positive events

A person experiencing sadness can still function, enjoy moments and feel hopeful.

 

What Is Depression?

Depression is a medical condition classified as a mood disorder.

It affects:

  • emotions

  • thinking patterns

  • behaviour

  • physical health

According to WHO, depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.

 

Core Symptoms of Depression

Depression involves a combination of symptoms such as:

  • persistent low mood

  • loss of interest or pleasure

  • fatigue

  • sleep disturbances

  • appetite changes

  • feelings of worthlessness

  • difficulty concentrating

These symptoms last at least two weeks or longer.

 

Duration: A Key Difference

One major difference lies in duration.

Sadness:

  • lasts hours or days

  • improves with time

Depression:

  • lasts weeks or months

  • persists despite positive events

Duration helps distinguish emotional response from illness.

 

Impact on Daily Functioning

Sadness:

  • allows continuation of work and relationships

  • may reduce motivation temporarily

Depression:

  • interferes with work, studies and relationships

  • reduces self-care and productivity

Functional impairment is a defining feature of depression.

 

Emotional Experience: Sadness vs Depression

Sadness:

  • allows emotional range

  • moments of joy still occur

Depression:

  • creates emotional numbness

  • joy and interest disappear

People with depression often describe feeling empty rather than sad.

 

Physical Symptoms in Depression

Depression is not only emotional.

Physical symptoms include:

  • chronic fatigue

  • body aches

  • headaches

  • digestive issues

ICMR mental health studies highlight the physical burden of depression.

 

Thought Patterns and Self-Perception

Sadness:

  • thoughts remain realistic

  • self-worth is preserved

Depression:

  • negative self-talk dominates

  • feelings of guilt and worthlessness increase

These cognitive changes deepen emotional suffering.

 

Risk Factors for Depression

Factors increasing depression risk include:

  • chronic stress

  • trauma

  • family history

  • medical illnesses

  • hormonal changes

NFHS-5 data indicates rising mental health concerns among young adults.

 

Can Sadness Turn Into Depression?

Yes, prolonged or unresolved sadness can progress into depression.

This is more likely when:

  • stressors are ongoing

  • support systems are weak

  • coping mechanisms are limited

Early emotional support can prevent progression.

 

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek help if:

  • low mood lasts more than two weeks

  • daily functioning is affected

  • sleep and appetite are disturbed

  • thoughts of self-harm occur

Early care leads to better outcomes.

 

Treatment Differences

Sadness:

  • improves with rest, support and time

Depression:

  • requires psychotherapy

  • may need medication

  • benefits from structured care

WHO emphasises early treatment to reduce disability.

 

Role of Social Support

Support systems help both conditions but are essential for recovery.

Depression recovery improves with:

  • understanding family

  • supportive workplaces

  • accessible mental healthcare

Stigma reduction is key.

 

Mental Health Awareness in India

Mental health remains underdiagnosed in India.

NITI Aayog reports:

  • limited access to mental health services

  • low awareness

  • high stigma

Education helps bridge this gap.

 

Importance of Early Recognition

Recognising depression early:

  • prevents worsening

  • reduces suicide risk

  • improves quality of life

Delay increases suffering and complications.

 

Supporting Someone With Depression

Helpful actions include:

  • listening without judgement

  • encouraging professional help

  • avoiding minimising feelings

Compassion is more effective than advice.

 

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is essential for emotional wellbeing and mental health care. Sadness is a natural, temporary response to life events, while depression is a serious medical condition that affects thoughts, emotions and daily functioning. Recognising the signs early and seeking appropriate help can prevent long-term suffering and promote recovery. Mental health deserves the same attention and care as physical health.

 

References

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Depression and Mental Health Disorders

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Mental Health Research and Burden

  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Mental Health Indicators

  • Lancet – Depression, Disability and Public Health

  • NITI Aayog – National Mental Health Policy and Awareness Reports

  • Statista – Global and Indian Mental Health Trends

See all

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