100% Egg Protein Vanilla 1lb from Optimum Nutrition

Only $20.95

100% Egg Protein Vanilla 1lb from Optimum Nutrition

Early civilizations considered the egg to be sacred because it represented the miracle of life. Unfortunately, the egg hasn't always been seen in such a favorable light. Over the past two decades, the egg has come under increased scrutiny and some health professionals have caused the egg to become a symbol of high cholesterol. As a direct result the consumption of eggs has decreased, and many consumers have avoided this dietary staple altogether. Well, the tides of the dietary ocean are turning once again and from the looks of it, the egg is primed to make a strong comeback and restore its once solid reputation.

What are the Major Benefits of the Egg?
The egg is a nutrient-dense food. First of all, it is a complete protein source meaning that the egg contains all of the eight essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and maintenance. In addition to providing high-quality protein, the egg also contains 13 vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, B₆, B₁₂, riboflavin, folate, iron, phosphorus, and zinc. Initially, one might assume it to be a calorie-laden food, but it is actually the exact opposite. One large egg has only 70 calories!

Isn't the Egg High in Cholesterol?
Yes, this is true. The egg is a high-cholesterol food. Don't eliminate the egg from your dietary plan just yet. A number of recent studies suggest that dietary cholesterol has only a minimal effect on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) blood cholesterol levels. Having a high LDL blood cholesterol level can significantly increase a person's risk of developing coronary heart disease (CHD). One study performed by researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health studied the relationship between egg consumption and CHD¹. The researchers came to the conclusion that a diet including an egg a day is not likely to increase an individual's risk of CHD.

However, there is a way to enjoy the high-protein benefits of eggs without the unwanted cholesterol. All of the cholesterol is located in the egg yolk, not the white; therefore by separating the white from the yolk, the cholesterol is eliminated.

Are There Alternative Means to Incorporating More Eggs into My Diet?
As a matter of fact, there are a couple of alternatives to shell eggs. There are egg substitutes, which contain the same amount of protein and nearly the same levels of vitamins and minerals as shell eggs, but zero fat and cholesterol and only half of the calories. Plus, egg substitutes are usually pasteurized for safety, and they taste remarkably similar to the real thing.

Another option is egg protein supplements. Egg protein supplements are an excellent choice for individuals who want to reap the high quality protein benefits of the egg in a more convenient form. Egg protein supplements can be mixed with liquid to yield a high protein beverage with minimal amounts of lactose, fat, and cholesterol. The protein concentration level of egg protein supplements is perhaps the most attractive aspect. One scoop of an egg protein supplement can deliver up to 22 grams of protein or the equivalent of seven egg whites.

Before you fall victim to the latest health trends, don't give up on eggs before you realize what you could be missing out on. After looking at the fine print, you will see that the nutritional benefits of eggs obviously outweigh the drawbacks. So as the tides of the dietary ocean pull back to reveal the image of the egg, it shouldn't be seen as a symbol of high cholesterol, but rather a symbol of nutrition.

¹ Hu FB, Stampfer MJ, Rimm EB, et al. A prospective study of egg consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease in men and women. JAMA 1999; 281:1387-1394.

Nutrition Facts:
Amount Per Serving		% Daily Value
Calories	100
Total Carbohydrate	4 g	1%*
Dietary Fiber	1 g	4%*
Sugars	0 g
Protein	22 g	44%*
Calcium	20 mg	2%*
Iron	0.6 mg	4%*
Phosphorus	50 mg	6%*
Magnesium	23 mg	6%*
Sodium	340 mg	15%*
Potassium	390 mg	10%*
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Ingredients: Pasteurized Egg Albumen (including the following protein fractions: Ovalbumin, Ovotransferrin, Ovomucoid, Ovomucin and Lysozyme), Cocoa, Artificial Flavor, Aspartame.**
** Phenylketonurics - contains phenylalanine. (Chocolate shown. Slight variations may occur between pages.)
Suggested Use: Take 1 to 3 servings daily.

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