Egg yolk, often referred to as a nutrient-dense “superfood,” is an important component of many dietary plans, including the popular keto diet.
Rich in vitamins and minerals, egg yolk serves as a source of high-quality proteins and nutrients, such as lecithin, which helps maintain the health of cell membranes and digestion.
It also contains fat-soluble antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health.
It provides essential fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as a range of B-group vitamins, including folic acid, biotin, and choline, supporting energy metabolism and the nervous system.
Egg yolk is also a source of valuable minerals, including phosphorus, iron, and zinc, necessary for various biological processes in the body.
Nutritional Value
In terms of macronutrients, egg yolk is predominantly rich in fats, with a significant portion being unsaturated fatty acids.
It contains approximately 2.7 g of protein and 4.5 g of total fats, of which around 1.6 g are saturated fats.
The total calorie content in one egg yolk is about 55 kcal.
In the context of the keto diet, egg yolk is a suitable food due to its low carbohydrate content, which is less than 1 g per yolk.
Potential Risks
There are also potential risks associated with consuming egg yolks.
While the overall fat content in egg yolks may be beneficial in the context of the keto diet, yolks also contain saturated fats, excessive consumption of which may raise cholesterol levels in some individuals.
Additionally, eggs can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
It is also important to note that egg yolks contain cholesterol, and although for most people, dietary cholesterol intake does not affect blood cholesterol levels, for some individuals with certain conditions or genetic predispositions, it can be problematic.
