Eggshells, often discarded as waste, are actually a rich source of calcium and other essential minerals that can benefit the human body. While the idea of consuming eggshells might seem unusual, there are several traditional and natural health remedies that suggest eggshells can help treat or prevent certain health conditions. However, it’ s crucial to use them safely and appropriately, as improper preparation can lead to health risks......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
Health Benefits of Eggshells
Rich Source of Calcium Eggshells are made up of about 95% calcium carbonate, a form of calcium that the body can easily absorb. Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in bone health, teeth formation, muscle function, and overall cellular function. Many people turn to eggshells as a natural source of calcium to improve bone density and combat diseases like osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to fractures.
Treat Osteoporosis and Strengthen Bones Osteoporosis is a condition that affects bone strength, often occurring in older adults, particularly women. The high calcium content in eggshells can help strengthen bones and prevent bone loss. Consuming powdered eggshells can be an affordable way to supplement your calcium intake and reduce the risk of developing bone- related diseases. When combined with other nutrients like vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium, the effects can be even more beneficial.
Improves Joint Health Eggshell membranes, the thin layer found inside the shell, contain proteins, collagen, and other compounds that support joint health. Collagen is a protein that helps in maintaining the integrity of cartilage, tendons, and bones, reducing pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis. Some studies have shown that supplementing with eggshell membrane can help reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and other joint disorders.
Balances Acidity and Treats Digestive Issues Eggshell powder is also used as a natural remedy for balancing stomach acidity. In traditional medicine, it’ s believed that the alkaline properties of calcium carbonate can help neutralize excess stomach acid, which can cause heartburn, indigestion, and ulcers. Consuming small amounts of powdered eggshell may provide relief from acid- related digestive discomfort.
Aids in Dental Health Eggshells contain minerals like magnesium, potassium, and fluoride, all of which contribute to strong and healthy teeth. Some people even use finely powdered eggshell as a toothpaste additive to remineralize teeth and prevent cavities. It’ s believed that eggshell calcium helps fill in small holes in tooth enamel, providing a natural way to protect against decay.
How to Safely Prepare Eggshells for Consumption
Cleaning the Shells Raw eggshells can contain harmful bacteria like salmonella, so it’ s essential to clean them thoroughly. Start by boiling the eggshells in water for about 10 minutes to kill any potential pathogens.
Drying and Grinding After boiling, let the eggshells dry completely. Once dried, grind them into a fine powder using a food processor or coffee grinder. This powder can be added to smoothies, soups, or other foods.
Dosage Only a small amount of eggshell powder is needed to supplement your calcium intake. About half a teaspoon of eggshell powder provides around 400- 500 mg of calcium, which is about half of the recommended daily intake for adults.
Raw eggshells, when prepared properly, can serve as a natural and affordable source of calcium and other nutrients, providing benefits for bone health, joint support, and even digestive relief.
However, always ensure that eggshells are cleaned and processed safely to avoid any risk of contamination. While eggshells can offer health benefits, it’ s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding them to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.