Protein is essential for growth and development. Eggs contain all nine essential amino acids making them a complete protein. In fact, the pattern of amino acids found in eggs is so perfect for our bodies to use, that scientists use eggs as a standard to measure the protein quality of other foods. In addition to protein, eggs also contain a significant number of vitamins and minerals, yet one egg has only 71 calories. Eggs also contain a small amount of fat, about 5 grams per egg.
Cholesterol is another type of fat found in egg yolks.
In the past some people were concerned about eating foods that contained cholesterol. Current research suggests that dietary cholesterol has a minimal impact on most peoples health, and that the most effective means of decreasing blood cholesterol levels is to reduce your intake of saturated fat. As a result, foods such as eggs, milk products, meat and shellfish, that contain cholesterol can be a regular part of a healthy diet.