Eggs found to ‘boost’ protein intake in children
Published in healthcare periodical ‘Network Health Digest,’ the report reviewed international intervention studies and found that eggs “support growth, prevent stunting and improve protein levels in children.”
According to the study, adding one egg a day to a child’s usual diet found that they were 47% less likely to be stunted and 74% less likely to be underweight.
As well as being low in calories (just 70kcal per egg), they are a great source of: protein; amino acids; vitamins B and D; choline (needed for normal cognitive development and function) and iodine (for brain development)/
Amy Smith, author and nutrition student, explained: “Eggs have been shown time and time again to add nutritional value to our diets, both in developing countries and here in the UK.
“Childhood is a time when the diet needs to be as nutrient-dense as possible without delivering excess calories, fat and sugar which, especially in developed countries, can increase the risk of obesity.
“Foods like eggs, which are high in protein, vitamins B and D, and minerals, are therefore an excellent choice.
“They also have the benefit of storing well and are simple to cook.”
However, with much debate about the safety of eggs, dietitian Dr Carrie Ruxton claims parents are often unsure when to introduce them into children’s diets.
She added: “Weaning can be a confusing time given the wide range of advice provided by family and health professionals so eggs are often forgotten.
“Yet they are one of the best first protein foods once your baby has reached six months. Apart from the rich nutrient content, eggs are easy to digest and quick to prepare.
“Studies show that early introduction of eggs helps infants to avoid certain food allergies – probably because the immune system gets used to the different proteins.”
Top tips for introducing eggs to children’s diets include:
- For babies 6-9 months: scrambled egg made with breast or whole milk (with no added salt)
- Older babies and toddlers: eggy bread cut into small squares make perfect finger food. Add chopped baby tomatoes or berries
- Nursery school children: soft boiled eggs with wholegrain soldiers and a bowl of raw carrot sticks for a quick and nutritious tea
- Primary school children: swap sandwiches for a slice of homemade quiche made with eggs, sliced mushrooms or peppers and wholegrain pastry topped with Cheddar cheese
- For teenagers: teach them to prepare and cook a Spanish omelette with cooked slices of potato, pepper strips, ham and sliced tomatoes. Can be eaten hot or cold with a side salad to boost veggies