My boyfriend's family are Irish. Which means whenever we go to visit there is a lot of laughter and story telling. There's also lots of eating and drinking. It's practically impossible not to have fun.Usually it's also impossible not to leave a few pounds heavier than you arrived.
But on our most recent visit, I set myself a little goal. I was determined to have fun and avoid putting on some Irish weight.
And my secret weapon?
I was going to eat eggs for breakfast rather than toast or oatmeal. Yep. That was my simple plan.
And the crazy thing is it worked. Granted, we were only there for a week, but this time I came home to scales that were the same as before I left.
Eggs are now part of my breakfast repertoire and I must say they are delicious. I look forward to breakfast much more these days. But if you need a bit more convincing...
7 Reasons You Should Eat Eggs for Breakfast
1. Egg keep you feeling full much longer than cereal or toast.The protein and fat in eggs helps sustain your energy levels, keeping you satisfied for longer and reducing the need for a mid morning snack.
2. Eggs assist weight loss.
This is a follow on benefit from keeping you satiated. Studies have shown that people who eat eggs for breakfast are more likely to lose weight than those who ate bagels.
3. Eggs are a great source of protein.
Whole eggs are one of the most complete sources of protein, meaning eggs contain all the essential amino acids which we must get from our diets.
4. Eggs tend to be relatively inexpensive.
Compared to other high protein foods such as red meat, even free range eggs are more budget friendly.
5. Eggs aren't going to make your cholesterol worse.
While it's true that eggs do contain a significant amount of cholesterol, the old formula of the cholesterol you eat impacting on your blood cholesterol levels, has been disproven. So there's no need to worry about eating eggs increasing your risk for heart disease.
6. Eggs help with brain development and memory.
Choline, an essential nutrient found in eggs, stimulates brain development and function. It has also been linked with increasing memory retention and recall as well as improving alertness.
7. Eggs protect your eyesight.
Two antioxidants, leutin and zeaxanthin, are present in eggs and have been linked to protecting eyes from damage related to UV exposure. They have also been associated with reducing the likelihood of developing cataracts in old age.
Think you don't have time for a cooked breakfast?
Here are three great ways to prepare eggs in 5 minutes or less:1. Boil eggs in advance
Boil up a big batch of eggs on the weekend and keep them at the ready for a quick breakfast on the go.
2. 60 second eggs
Just crack an egg into a microwave safe cup and zap on high for one minute. Stir, season and breakfast is ready.
3. Fried eggs
My favourite breakfast, there's something beautiful about a good fried egg. Just heat a small skilled over a high heat for a minute or so, add a little oil, crack the eggs and add to the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes or until the whites are just set. Serve with spinach and lots of black pepper.
Do you eat eggs for breakfast? How do you like 'em? Tell us in the comments below!
