Have it as curry, bhurji, or omelette, eggs make for a wholesome meal any time of the day. They are versatile and provide almost every essential nutrient for healthy living. Eggs contain protein, vitamins, calcium and iron among others, all of which come together to fulfil your daily nutritional needs in the most delicious way possible. That’s why experts suggest having at least one egg a day to maintain a balanced diet. But did you know there is a significant number of people who avoid eggs in their meals? No, we are not talking about those on a plant-based diet. Some people are allergic to eggs. Yes, you heard us right. For some individuals, the protein in eggs acts as a foreign invader, triggering various types of allergies. What do they do then? Do they give up on all the essential nutrients that eggs provide? The easiest way out is to replace eggs with healthy alternatives that provide an equal amount of nutrients to your body.
In this article, we will take you through some food options that are considered perfect alternatives to eggs. But before we delve into that, let’s explain more about egg allergy, so that you can make an informed decision the next time you consider having eggs. Read on.
Also Read: Busted! 5 Myths About Eggs You Should Stop Believing Now
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What Is Egg Allergy? How Does It Occur?
Let’s begin by understanding how allergies occur. When your body encounters a foreign substance, it automatically releases chemicals to create antidotes. When these antidotes fail to react properly in the body, it leads to various health problems, including allergies. In the case of egg allergy, the proteins in egg whites and egg yolks act as external substances. When they react negatively with the chemical called histamines, it leads to an allergic reaction to eggs.
What Are The Symptoms Of Egg Allergy?
Allergic reactions to eggs can vary from person to person. While some might experience rashes and skin inflammation, others might encounter various digestive troubles, including stomach aches, nausea, indigestion, bloating, and more. Some people even experience cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose after eating eggs. These allergic reactions usually manifest within a few minutes after consuming eggs. However, in some cases, the symptoms may appear even after two to three hours.
How To Prevent These Allergic Reactions?
As mentioned earlier, the best way to prevent an egg allergy is by eliminating eggs or egg-based products from your diet. When buying packaged food, always check the label to see if it contains eggs in the ingredient list. For your daily diet, explore your kitchen pantry to find ample alternatives that are as healthy as eggs. Let’s take you through some of the most common ingredients available in your pantry.
Also Read: No Eggs? No Problem! Dive Into Our Delicious Tomato Besan Omelette Recipe
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Here are 5 of the Best Egg Alternatives for You:
1. Banana:
The most commonly available fruit throughout the year, bananas are a great alternative to eggs. They are loaded with almost every essential micro and macronutrient, making them a wholesome and fulfilling choice. You can have bananas as is or add them to your meals in different ways. If you’re concerned about the high sugar content in bananas, we suggest preparing banana tea to enjoy all the benefits without adding excess calories to your diet. Click here for a banana tea recipe.
2. Chia Seeds:
Over the years, chia seeds have found a permanent spot in almost every kitchen. These minuscule seeds are loaded with every essential nutrient and help fulfil your daily nutritional needs. You can soak them in water and have them as a detox drink or prepare a delicious pudding for a wholesome breakfast or a healthy dessert. We have a delicious chia pudding recipe to curb your sweet cravings guilt-free. Click here for the recipe.
3. Dal:
Dal, or lentils, is a staple in every Indian household. But have you ever wondered why? Is it just because Dal is easily accessible throughout the year? No, Dal has much more to offer. It is a storehouse of protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and several essential nutrients, making it a complete meal by itself. Click here for some delicious dal recipes for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Also Read: Have You Tried Urad Dal Kadhi? Easy Recipe For Beginners
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4. Almonds:
Since time immemorial, we have seen our parents forcing us to eat almonds, also known as badam. Hence, it becomes even more important to understand why they do so. Almonds are considered a superfood as they contain a good amount of protein, fibre, healthy oils, and essential vitamins and minerals. Having a handful of almonds a day is enough to get your daily nutritional fix. But remember, always soak, peel, and then have almonds to enjoy their benefits to the fullest. Click here for some other smart ways to include almonds in your diet.
Also Read: Is It Okay To Eat Almonds During Summer? Pros And Cons You Must Know
5. Dahi (Indian Yogurt):
Dahi is possibly one of the best alternatives to add to recipes that require eggs as an ingredient. It provides a creamy, fluffy texture and is loaded with various healthy ingredients that make it a perfect replacement for eggs. Click here for some fun ways to include dahi in your daily diet.
Next time you experience any of the above allergic reactions, fret not! Replace eggs with these healthier alternatives and enjoy a safe and healthy life. However, if you experience severe symptoms, it is always better to consult an expert for a clearer picture.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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