Got a dozen on hand? As a runner, you should. Routinely eating eggs affords you amazing health benefits. Here are five reasons to crack one open.

To slim down

In a study, dieters who had eggs for breakfast achieved a 60 per cent greater weight loss compared with those who began their day with a kilojoule-equivalent roll. Researchers theorise the quality protein in whole eggs (13 per cent of the RDA for adults) helps control appetite. What’s more, egg protein is easy for your body to absorb, which makes it a good muscle-repair food after a long run or tempo workout.

To protect (yes, protect) your heart

Numerous studies have debunked the link between eggs and heart disease. In fact, research shows that eating several eggs a week results in cholesterol particles that are less likely to spell cardiac trouble. What’s more, a unique protein found in egg yolks blocks platelets (the cells responsible for blood clots) from clumping together inside blood vessels, thereby minimising heart-attack risk.

To fight inflammation

Whole eggs are one of the best sources of the nutrient choline (one large egg has 30 per cent of your RDA, mostly in the yolk). Besides playing a key role in brain health, choline helps keep the body’s circulatory system clear of compounds that would otherwise cause inflammation, which can lead to disorders ranging from muscle swelling after a hard workout to diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.

To maintain bone strength

Eggs are one of the few natural sources of bone-building vitamin D. One egg supplies 10 per cent of your RDA. All-grain eggs can have more than double that amount.

To keep your vision sharp

Yolks contain the pigment lutein, which helps prevent age-related macular degeneration (a leading cause of blindness). And while spinach and other greens contain higher amounts of lutein, eggs provide a more absorbable form.

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