An egg white is the clear liquid that is contained inside an egg and surrounding the egg yolk - the yellow or orange colored part. Egg white is referred to as the albumen. Depending on the size of the egg, the albumen will account for most of the egg’s liquid contents - around 66% of it. The egg white of a large sized egg is only about 17 calories.1 The egg white liquid when uncooked is clear or opalescent. It doesn’t turn white until cooked. When whipped or beaten, egg whites turn foamy which is a process used to make meringues, souffles, and cakes like angel food cake and sponge cake.1
Egg whites are considered to be very healthy because of their high protein content. Other egg white health benefits include a high niacin, riboflavin, magnesium, and potassium content which are all essential nutrients for human health and nourishment. Additionally, egg whites do not contain any of the fat or cholesterol content of the egg.1 2 Egg whites contain a macro nutrient called choline, as well as carotenoids called lutein and zeaxanthin. 2 Because of the nutritional value, egg white health benefits include:2 3
These important egg white health benefits make it a useful natural remedy and preventative treatment for several conditions. Egg whites can be used to treat and prevent the following ailments:
While eggs are safe for most people, there are some egg white side effects to be aware of. Approximately 1-2 percent of children in the U.S. develop an allergy to eggs and therefore shouldn’t use egg whites as a natural remedy. 2 Additionally, anyone at risk of cardiovascular disease or anyone who already has diabetes or is taking choline supplements should talk to their doctor about a healthy amount of eggs to consume and how often.2