Can You Eat Egg Shells?

Eggshells are an unavoidable part of our diets if we consume eggs, but is it safe to eat them? While the eggshell is an excellent source of calcium, has a variety of minerals, and can help heal the digestive system, it is not a common food item. In this article, we’ll explore the feasibility of eating eggshells, and whether they are beneficial for our health or not.

The Nutritional Value of Egg Shells

An eggshell is made up of calcium carbonate, the same component of seashells and other calcium supplements. In fact, an entire eggshell may contain up to 2,000 milligrams of calcium.

Calcium is a crucial mineral that helps your body with a variety of functions, including bone health, nerve signaling, muscle function, and blood clotting. Consuming eggs, including their shells, can be a great way to increase calcium intake.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Eating Egg Shells?

Pros:

High Source of Calcium

As mentioned before, eggshells are an excellent source of calcium, which is important for strong bones, teeth, and regulatory body functions.

Aids in Digestive Health

Eggshell powder has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine as a remedy for digestive issues such as acid reflux, stomach ulcers, and inflammation. The powder contains calcium carbonate, which can help neutralize acid in the stomach and promote healing.

Possible Immune Boosting Properties

Eggshells also contain a protein called ovotransferrin, which has been shown to have antimicrobial properties that could potentially support the immune system.

Cons:

Increase Risk of Illness

Eating eggshells does pose a potential risk of foodborne illness, such as salmonella. The risk is significantly lower if the eggshell is properly cleaned, pasteurized, or boiled. However, it is recommended to avoid consuming raw eggshells as much as possible.

Tooth Damage

Since eggshells are hard and crunchy, they could pose a risk to teeth. Chewing on eggshells may result in chipped or broken teeth, causing discomfort and a need for dental treatment.

Accessibility

Not all eggs are created equal. Eggs from organic, farm-raised chickens are a better option than commercially raised eggs, which may contain antibiotics or growth hormones that could contaminate the shells.

How to Eat Egg Shells Safely

If you want to consume eggshells, it is essential to clean them thoroughly before consuming. Boiling eggshells for a few minutes, drying them, and then grinding them in a food processor can create a powder that can be added to several dishes.

Here are some ways to eat eggshells:

• As a supplement – sprinkle the powder over yogurt or add it to a smoothie for an easy calcium supplement
• In baking – add eggshell powder to baked goods for an extra calcium boost
• As a coffee additive – some people claim that eggshell powder can neutralize the acidity in coffee, creating a smoother taste

FAQs

1. Is it safe to eat eggshells?

While eggshells are safe to eat, consuming raw eggshells or not cleaning them thoroughly may pose a potential risk of foodborne illness.

2. Can eggshell powder be made at home?

Yes, you can make eggshell powder at home by boiling eggshells, allowing them to dry, and then grinding them into a fine powder in a food processor.

3. Will eating eggshells provide enough calcium supplement for osteoporosis?

No, eating eggshells alone will not provide enough calcium to prevent or treat osteoporosis. However, consuming eggshells as a supplement with other calcium-rich foods may be beneficial.

4. Can eggshell powder be used for pets?

Yes, eggshell powder can be an excellent source of calcium for pets such as dogs and cats.

5. Can eggshells cause any dental problems?

Eggshells can be hard and crunchy, creating a risk of tooth damage such as chipped or broken teeth if chewed on. It is recommended to avoid consuming eggshells directly.

Conclusion

Eating eggshells can be a great way to increase calcium intake and help with digestive issues. However, it is essential to understand the potential risks and take precautions before consuming them. To sum up, here are the key points to keep in mind:

• Eggshells are a high source of calcium and can be beneficial for our health.
• Eggshell powder has been used for centuries to aid in digestive health and could promote immune-boosting properties.
• Consuming raw eggs or not cleaning eggshells properly can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses such as salmonella.
• It is important to use eggs from organic, farm-raised chickens and boil eggshells for a few minutes before consuming them.
• Eggshell powder can be added to several dishes, such as yogurt, smoothie, and baked goods, for an easy calcium supplement.

As with any dietary choice, it is vital to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating eggshells into your diet.