Eggs are one of the healthiest (and tastiest) breakfast foods out there. They offer up a wide array of benefits for both your brain and body, thanks to the fact that they’re packed with lean protein and other important nutrients that can not only keep you satisfied throughout the day, but can also improve muscle mass, cholesterol levels, and more, all of which is especially beneficial as you reach middle age.
But just like any other food, the way you prepare your eggs can either add to these health benefits or negate them. Frying your eggs in inflammatory oils, for example, could do more harm than good for your body. On the other hand, though, there are some amazing ingredients you can add to the mix to take your breakfast to the next level.
To discover one of the best ingredients you can add to your eggs for a healthier body and brain over 40, we spoke to personal trainer and registered dietitian Jesse Feder, RDN, CPT from My Crohns and Colitis Team. He told us that spinach is one of the optimal choices. Learn about the benefits of adding this leafy green to your morning scramble below.
Benefits of spinach in eggs
You've probably already heard a thing or two about how leafy greens can do wonders for your body, but seriously—it's impossible to overstate the benefits of these superfoods. According to Feder, spinach, in particular, makes a fantastic addition to your eggs, especially for those over 40.
"Spinach is a superfood that contains good amounts of vitamins A, C, E, K, and folate," he says. "Additionally its a great source of magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, fiber, and antioxidants. These things are all very important to support your body and brain over the age of 40."
So how, exactly, do these nutrients translate to greater health as you age? Feder explains that they "can help maintain bone, muscle, digestive, cardiovascular, and brain health."
Additionally, the fact that this incredible veggie packs in additional antioxidants like lutein and carotene can kick your breakfast up a notch. "The high antioxidant content is great for reducing or fighting off inflammation throughout the body," Feder confirms. Lower inflammation levels can not only improve your gut health, aid weight loss, and more, but can also benefit your brain, potentially even delaying age-related diseases and brain damage.
The bottom line
You should remember that no food (even ones labeled as "superfoods") can work a miracle If you want to improve your overall health, it's important to stick to a number of healthy habits. However, your diet is one of the most crucial factors in your wellbeing, and fitting more leafy greens like spinach into your breakfast is certainly a great step to take towards a healthier life overall.
