Eggshells are often discarded as waste products, but some advocates suggest that eating eggshells can be beneficial for your health. However, others warn against the potential risks. In this article, we will explore both the benefits and risks of eating eggshells and help you make an informed decision about whether adding them to your diet is right for you.
Why People Eat Egg Shells
There are several reasons why people choose to eat eggshells. Firstly, they are a source of calcium carbonate, a type of calcium that is easily absorbed by the body. Secondly, eggshells are believed to have alkalizing effects on the body, which can help balance the body’s pH and reduce the risk of disease. Lastly, some people consume eggshells as a way to reduce waste and make use of the entire egg.
Additionally, eggshells are also a natural source of collagen, which is a protein that is essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Collagen is also important for maintaining healthy joints and bones. Some people believe that consuming eggshells can help improve the appearance of their skin and hair, as well as support their overall joint and bone health.
Nutritional Value of Egg Shells
Eggshells are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which is the most abundant mineral in the body. A single eggshell contains about 750-800 mg of calcium, which is approximately 80% of the recommended daily intake for adults. In addition to calcium, eggshells also contain other important minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. They are also a source of protein, with approximately 1.5 grams of protein per eggshell.
Recent studies have also shown that eggshells contain a unique type of collagen, which has been found to have potential health benefits such as improving joint health and reducing inflammation. This collagen is extracted from the eggshells and can be used in supplements or added to food products. Additionally, eggshells can be ground into a fine powder and used as a natural calcium supplement for both humans and animals.
How to Prepare Egg Shells for Consumption
If you decide to try consuming eggshells, it is important to prepare them properly to avoid any potential health risks. Start by rinsing the eggshells thoroughly with water to remove any residue. Next, boil the eggshells for around 10 minutes to kill any bacteria that may be present. Once they are boiled, remove the shells from the water and allow them to cool. You can crush the eggshells into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a food processor. This powder can then be added to food or drinks.
It is important to note that consuming eggshells is not recommended for everyone. People with certain health conditions, such as kidney disease, should avoid consuming eggshells due to their high calcium content. Additionally, it is important to only consume eggshells from organic, free-range eggs to avoid any potential exposure to harmful chemicals or antibiotics.
The Risks of Eating Egg Shells
While eggshells can be a source of valuable nutrients, there are also potential risks associated with consuming them. Firstly, eggshells may contain bacteria such as Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning. This is why it is crucial to boil the eggshells thoroughly before consuming them. Secondly, consuming too much calcium can lead to a condition called hypercalcemia, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Thirdly, eggshells may also contain trace amounts of heavy metals such as lead, which can be harmful if ingested in large quantities.
Additionally, consuming eggshells can also pose a choking hazard, especially for young children or individuals with swallowing difficulties. The sharp edges of the eggshells can cause cuts or tears in the digestive tract, leading to further complications. It is important to exercise caution when consuming eggshells and to ensure that they are finely ground or crushed before consumption.
Potential Health Benefits of Eating Egg Shells
Some advocates claim that eating eggshells can have several health benefits. Firstly, the high calcium content of eggshells may help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Secondly, eggshells may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties due to their alkalizing effects on the body. However, more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits.
In addition to the potential health benefits mentioned above, eggshells may also aid in digestion. The membrane lining the inside of the eggshell contains chondroitin sulfate, which is commonly used as a supplement to treat digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease and acid reflux.
Furthermore, eggshells can be a source of protein. One eggshell contains about 6 grams of protein, which can be beneficial for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. However, it is important to note that the protein in eggshells is not as easily digestible as other sources of protein, such as meat or legumes.
Studies on the Health Effects of Eating Egg Shells
There is limited scientific research on the health effects of eating eggshells. However, some studies have suggested that consuming eggshells may help improve bone density in certain populations, such as postmenopausal women. Other studies have shown that the alkalizing effects of eggshells may help reduce the risk of acid-related conditions such as reflux disease and kidney stones. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine safe levels of consumption.
One study conducted on eggshells found that they contain high levels of calcium carbonate, which is a common ingredient in many antacids. This suggests that consuming eggshells may have a similar effect on reducing acid levels in the stomach. However, it is important to note that consuming too much calcium can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition where there is too much calcium in the blood.
Another potential benefit of consuming eggshells is their high collagen content. Collagen is a protein that is essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. Some studies have suggested that consuming collagen supplements may help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. While more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of consuming eggshells for this purpose, it is an area of interest for researchers studying the health benefits of eggshells.
How Much Egg Shell Should You Consume?
It is not recommended to consume large amounts of eggshells due to the potential risks associated with excess calcium intake. The recommended dosage is one-half teaspoon of finely crushed eggshells per day, which contains approximately 1,000-1,500 mg of calcium. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before adding eggshells to your diet.
Consuming too much calcium can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition where there is too much calcium in the blood. This can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and even kidney damage. Therefore, it is important to stick to the recommended dosage of eggshells and not exceed it.
It is also important to note that not all eggshells are safe to consume. Eggshells from organic, free-range eggs are generally considered safe, but eggshells from conventionally raised chickens may contain harmful chemicals and bacteria. It is best to source your eggshells from a trusted and reputable source.
Can Eating Egg Shells Improve Bone Health?
Eggshells are a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that consuming eggshell powder daily for 30 days helped improve bone density in postmenopausal women. However, more studies are needed to confirm these findings, and it is important to consume eggshells in moderation to avoid the risk of hypercalcemia.
In addition to calcium, eggshells also contain other minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, which are important for bone health. These minerals work together to support bone growth and maintenance, and consuming eggshells can help ensure that your body has enough of these essential nutrients.
It is important to note that not all eggshells are safe to consume. Eggshells from organic, free-range eggs are generally considered safe, but eggshells from conventionally raised chickens may contain harmful bacteria or chemicals. It is also important to properly clean and sterilize eggshells before consuming them to reduce the risk of contamination.
Tips for Incorporating Egg Shells into Your Diet
If you want to incorporate eggshells into your diet, there are several ways to do so. You can add finely crushed eggshells to smoothies, desserts, or even savory dishes such as soups and stews. You can also mix eggshell powder with water and drink it as a natural calcium supplement.
Another way to use eggshells is to make a tea out of them. Simply boil a few eggshells in water for about 5 minutes, strain the liquid, and add honey or lemon for flavor. This tea is a great source of calcium and can also help with digestion.
It’s important to note that you should only use eggshells from organic, free-range eggs to avoid any potential contamination from pesticides or antibiotics. Additionally, make sure to clean the eggshells thoroughly before using them in any recipe.
Alternative Uses for Egg Shells Around the House
Aside from their potential health benefits, eggshells also have various practical uses around the house. For example, crushed eggshells can be used as a natural abrasive for cleaning pots and pans, and they can also be added to compost to help nourish plants. Additionally, eggshells can be used as seed starters by planting seeds in hollowed-out eggshells and then transferring them to the soil once they have sprouted.
In conclusion, eating eggshells can be a source of valuable nutrients, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks and consume them in moderation. If you decide to add eggshells to your diet, be sure to prepare them properly and consult with a healthcare professional beforehand.
Another alternative use for eggshells is to use them as a natural pest deterrent in the garden. Simply crush the eggshells and sprinkle them around the base of plants to keep slugs and snails away. The sharp edges of the eggshells will deter these pests from crawling over them and damaging your plants.
