Eggs Are A Superfood For Your Pets
Dubbed as 'Mother Nature's original superfood,' eggs are an economical, highly nutritious food source that not only humans, but pets can enjoy too. This humble, worldwide cooking staple is a treasure trove of protein and other key nutrients.
Your pet can also benefit from the goodness of pastured eggs, raw or cooked. Brimming with bioavailable nutrients like amino acids and healthy fats, eggs are a low-calorie longevity snack. No matter if it's chicken, duck, or quail - the humble egg delivers.
Eggs: A Potent Source of Phospholipids
One key bioactive compound in eggs is phospholipids. Found in plant and animal cell membranes, they regulate the cell's permeability barrier and the entry of other molecules. Plenty of studies have confirmed their anti-inflammatory effects and their role in brain development.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Eye-Health Boosters in Eggs
Pastured eggs are a rich source of vital nutrients lutein and zeaxanthin. These bioactive compounds act as antioxidants, particularly beneficial for eye health. In pets, these nutrients may assist with vision-related issues and boost the canine immune response.
Choline: The Cell Preserver in Eggs
Choline, another bioactive compound in eggs, helps in synthesising two major phospholipids, preserving the structural integrity of cells. Besides promoting phospholipid health, choline is crucial for your pet’s heart, brain, and liver function. Regular intake can even reduce the risk of "doggy dementia."
A Treasure Trove of Essential Amino Acids
Did you know all essential amino acids are present in eggs? These 'building blocks of life' combine to form proteins, making eggs an ideal snack for you and your pet. Amino acids regulate metabolic functions, gene expression, and cell signalling and are fundamental to muscle tissue and protein synthesis.
The Source of Your Eggs Matters
Remember, not all eggs are created equal. Eggs from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) are far removed from the humane spectrum. These facilities often have unhygienic conditions, impacting the environment negatively and compromising the health of nearby residents.
On the other hand, pasture-raised animals live in cleaner, hormone-free environments, leading to eggs with higher omega-3 fats. You should always aim to source eggs from pasture-raised animals as they provide the highest nutritional value.
Serving Eggs to Your Pet
Eggs offer culinary versatility. For your pet, serve them raw, with or without the shell, or lightly cooked. Soft-boiling is the ideal method to preserve the nutrients. Just simmer the eggs for six to seven minutes.
Remember, treats like eggs should constitute less than 10% of your pet's calorie intake to prevent overeating. The majority of your pet's nutrition should come from wholesome, nutritionally balanced, and species-appropriate meals.
Make sure you read our blog about eggshell membranes, to learn about the wonderful benefits of feeding them to your dog.
And ... check out this video from pet health experts Dr Karen Shaw-Becker & Rodney Habib about the wonderful benefits of eggs.
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