All the fitness freaks and bodybuilders have to eat chicken eggs in numbers on a daily basis whether they like them or not. Health experts have come up with an excellent alternative and that is Quail eggs. Although they are smaller in size they contain 3 times more nutritional properties than chicken eggs. Having 2% more protein as compared to chicken eggs. That’s why it is recommended to eat quail eggs for gym-goers especially when anyone is on a protein diet.
Other than the high content of proteins, quail eggs have many other astounding benefits on our health, but first, let’s look at where these eggs came from and their history in the human diet.
Where do Quail eggs come from?
The scientific name of Quail is Coturnix Japonica and as the name suggests they are literally eggs of the bird “quail”.
Egyptians were always into the breeding of quails because they came to realize that quails are a shining source of proteins. Egyptians used to have large breeding farms of quails and because of this large-scale breeding, they soon came to know that quail eggs are the best alternative to chicken eggs as they provide double the protein count than chicken eggs.
Other than Egypt, in the Far East, the Chinese used these eggs in 770 BC and kept using them for 4000 years. It will not be wrong to say that most of the breeds of quails are ancestors of Chinese quails.
Nutritional facts of Quail eggs
You will be agreeing to the numerous nutritional benefits of quail eggs once you look at the stunning nutritional profile. The following nutritional facts are for 1 quail egg:
Calories | 14 kcal |
Protein | 1 gm |
Fat | 1 gm |
Carbohydrates | 0 gm |
Fiber | 0 gm |
Vitamin A | 2% |
Vitamin B12 | 6% |
Iron | 2% |
Selenium | 5% |
The serving size of a quail egg is 3-4 eggs which is roughly the serving size of one chicken egg.
Benefits of Quail eggs
A small study showed that quail eggs have numerous amazing benefits on human health but they are most beneficial in treating cough, sneezing, congestion, and runny nose within just 1 hour of its consumption.
Let’s peep into some of the amazing benefits of these eggs:
- Improved Metabolism and Weight Loss: All the digestive problems and weight-related issues can be resolved if the metabolism of our body is working well. Quail eggs proved to be very advantageous in maintaining our metabolism. A healthy metabolism improves the quality of our digestive process as well as the digestion of food. Quail eggs have vitamin B, which is very essential for a speedy metabolism. So, if you are looking to improve metabolism, quail eggs are the right choice for you!
- Bone Strengthening: Quail eggs have very important nutrients like vitamin D and Lysine which are very beneficial for our bone development. Vitamin D regulates the amount of calcium and phosphorus which assist in bone health and strength. Consuming quail eggs, escalates the bone density, and largely reduces the risk of osteoporosis. A small study showed that as quail eggs are an affluent source of protein, they help in preventing brittle nails while keeping our teeth strong and healthy.
- Treating Respiratory Disorders: From ancient times, quail eggs have been used as a medicine in the treatment of asthma and bronchitis. Presently, increasing pollution is causing many respiratory problems. Quail eggs are considered to be effective in medicating these problems especially asthma. These eggs contain certain compounds with anti-oxidative properties that neutralize free radicals that cause respiratory conditions. But moderation should be kept in mind as moderate use of these eggs is quintessential to maintain a healthy respiratory system.
- Diabetes Management: Quail eggs have a low glycemic index and due to this low index, it releases very less sugar in the blood which in turn regulates the blood glucose level. Researchers have concluded that people having complications due to a high level of glucose in the blood should add quail eggs to their diets. The amino acids in quail eggs are perfect for blood sugar level maintenance and also to avoid any dysfunction caused by diabetes.
- Purification of Body: Anti-oxidants like β- carotene, vitamin A, C, and E fights against harmful toxins within the body and even helps remove them out of the body. You will be surprised to know that quail eggs provide us with the above-mentioned antioxidants and detoxifies the body. The high water content in the quail eggs also aids in flushing out toxins and harmful radicals from body systems. Research showed that quail eggs’ amino acids and other components bind the harmful toxins and take them out of the body through urine. Therefore, quail eggs are rightly categorized as ‘Body Purifiers’.
- Prevention of Kidney and Bladder Disorders: There is a natural remedy for kidney stones and that is Quail Eggs. The amazing small-sized eggs are most reliable in maintaining the calcium balance within the body which in turn allow free flow and prevention of kidney stones for a longer period. Because of the presence of magnesium, vitamin B6 and potassium, these eggs do not allow stones formation in the kidneys. Potassium specifically reduces the calcium content from the body because this calcium causes kidney stones. Also, vitamin B6 and magnesium prevent the formation of oxalate stones.
- Sexual Disorder: With the passage of age and time or sometimes due to any psychological factor, the sexual ability of men declines eventually which leads to severe depression, anger, or aggression. Although there are many energy supplements, the Chinese used quail eggs from very ancient times to cure this sexual disorder. The presence of vitamins, micro and macronutrients, minerals, and proteins aids in the treatment of sexual desire and dysfunction of erectile muscles. Quail eggs also foster the prostate gland which is very compulsory for men’s sexual health.
Side effects
Moderate intake of anything is best and the same goes for quail eggs. There are various side effects of overeating quail eggs, some of which are as:
- Might have bloating, flatulence or stomach ache.
- People having issues like hypotension or hypoglycemia should avoid quail eggs.
- Allergies like anaphylactic reactions can occur due to an overdose of quail eggs.
Final verdict
These quail eggs are perfect alternatives to chicken eggs as they provide as many nutrients as chicken eggs or even more. Quail eggs are nutrient-dense eggs which manage the glucose and cholesterol levels in the blood but it is recommended to use these protein-rich, nutritious eggs in moderate amounts.