By Teri Mendes

Quail-Eggs

As the name implies, quail eggs are the eggs laid by various species of quail, which are in the order Galliformes.  Quail are mid-sized birds found through Europe, North Africa, the southern United States and parts of Asia. Quail eggs are notably smaller than duck and chicken eggs, and are widely consumed and sold as novelty foods around the world. They are popular in Japanese bento boxes, and are typically eaten 3-5 at a time, due to their small size. Aside from being considered “cute” in many cultures, they are also packed with nutrients that make them a delicious and healthy option to add to your daily or weekly diet.

Despite the prevalence of quail in the United States, consumption of quail eggs is dominated by the Asian market, where they are commonly hawked as inexpensive street food, but the rich, flavorful yolk has increased the demand for these eggs in many different culinary areas. They have a higher yolk-to-white ratio than normal eggs, which can make them potentially dangerous for people with elevated cholesterol, but generally, quail eggs are considered very healthy. That being said, let’s take a closer look at some of the health benefits of quail eggs.

Health Benefits of Quail Eggs

Improve Vision: There is an impressively high level of vitamin A found in quail eggs, which means that it helps to protect our vision and eye health. The antioxidant activity of vitamin A can help to reduce macular degeneration and prevent the development of cataracts, helping you see better for longer!

Balance Cholesterol: There are a good amount of beneficial fatty acids found in quail eggs that many people enjoy due to their heart-boosting effects. HDL cholesterol is the “good” form of cholesterol that our body needs to offset the negative effects of LDL cholesterol, and HDL makes up more than 60% of the fat in quail eggs. However, for people with pre-existing cholesterol problems, adding large quantities of these eggs to your diet might not be the best choice, as there is roughly 1.6 grams of saturated fat in each serving.

Stimulate Growth: Just like with regular chicken eggs, quail eggs provide a solid boost of protein to the diet, which we need for countless processes in our body. Proteins are broken down into their constituent components and reformed for new cells, tissue, muscle, bone, and blood vessels. The protein punch of these eggs can ensure healthy and normal growth/repair.

Increase Metabolism: The range of B-family vitamins that are found in quail eggs result in boosted metabolic activity throughout the body, including hormonal and enzymatic function. By ensuring smooth bodily processes and organ functions, quail eggs can be far more than a delicious treat!

Raise Energy Levels: The long list of minerals and micronutrients found in these tiny eggs, as well as the protein boost of nearly 6 grams per serving, makes these eggs particularly good for an early morning surge of energy and mood. A high-protein, nutrient-dense breakfast is highly recommended for those who often feel dependent on caffeine or other stimulants to regulate their energy levels.

Did You Know: “Quail eggs contain 13 per cent protein compared to 11 per cent found in chicken eggs. They also contain 140 per cent of Vitamin B1, compared to 50 per cent found in chicken eggs,” quail eggs are known to help fight allergy symptoms because of the ovomucoid protein that is contained in them.

To Be Continued…