Eggs are a very important source of nutrients for kids. The clear “runny” part is an invaluable source of protein. Essential fatty acids (brain builders) are found in the yolk. So is cholesterol, the confusing ingredient. There is good cholesterol (HDL) and a not so good one (LDL). Potentially harmful LDL is created when the yolk is exposed to oxygen. This happens when the yolk is broken. There are ways to enjoy eggs and avoid the health consequences of LDL. One is to cook eggs in a pan without breaking the yolk. For those who like scrambled eggs and other eggs dishes such as quiche, (by the way, a lot of kids like quiche), the answer lies with antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E. In general, nuts, seeds, grains, leafy vegetables, soybeans, and cold-pressed oils contain Vitamin E. Citrus fruits, papaya, kiwi, bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, peas, and strawberries contain Vitamin C.

When you eat beaten eggs, simply add foods with these vitamins to your recipes and/or menus. As a back-up you may give your kids these vitamins in supplement form. Don’t deprive your kids of the nutrient benefits of eggs unless they are allergic to them. We recommend that your serve eggs for breakfast a couple times a week. There are lots of quick and easy ways to prepare them. See the CD Cookbook, Mom, I’m Hungry. What’s for Dinner? for our Family Approved egg recipes.