Can Quail Eggs Replace Chicken Eggs During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, women are advised to consume eggs daily to supplement the nutrition for their fetus. However, some pregnant women may not prefer chicken eggs due to personal preferences, and some may find it difficult to swallow 3-4 eggs a day. Quail eggs are small in size and also rich in nutritional value, making them a good alternative for pregnant women. But can quail eggs during pregnancy provide the same nutritional benefits as chicken eggs? Can they be a good substitute for chicken eggs?
Nutritional Value of Quail Eggs Compared to Chicken Eggs
The nutritional value of quail eggs is comparable to that of chicken eggs. Every 100 grams of edible portion of quail eggs contains 12.8 grams of protein, 11.1 grams of fat, 2.1 grams of carbohydrates, 337 micrograms of vitamin A, 0.11 milligrams of thiamine, 0.49 milligrams of riboflavin, 3.08 milligrams of vitamin E, 138 milligrams of potassium, 106.6 milligrams of sodium, 11 milligrams of magnesium, 0.04 milligrams of manganese, 1.61 milligrams of zinc, 0.09 milligrams of copper, 180 milligrams of phosphorus, 25.48 milligrams of selenium, and 515 milligrams of cholesterol. Some of these nutrients are slightly higher in quail eggs compared to the same amount of chicken eggs. Quail eggs can help with anemia, malnutrition, neurasthenia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, hypertension, and metabolic disorders. They also have inhibitory effects on allergic reactions caused by the consumption of shrimp, crab, or certain medications.
The nutritional value of quail eggs is comparable to that of chicken eggs. Compared to chicken eggs, quail eggs have 30% higher protein content, 20% more vitamin B1, 83% more vitamin B2, 46.1% more iron, and 5.6 times higher phospholipids. They also contain vitamin P. Quail eggs have over four times the amount of vitamin A compared to chicken eggs. Quail eggs contain more B vitamins, especially vitamin B2, which is twice as much as that in chicken eggs. Vitamin B2 is an auxiliary enzyme for biochemical activities and can promote growth and development. Quail eggs have higher cholesterol and phospholipid content compared to chicken eggs. The protein, fat, and carbohydrate content in chicken eggs and quail eggs are similar.
Quail eggs are much smaller than chicken eggs but have higher nutritional value. Quail eggs contain a wide variety and high amount of essential amino acids, as well as various high-quality phospholipids. The phospholipid content in quail eggs is 5-6 times higher than that in chicken eggs, and the protein content is 30% higher. Quail eggs also contain double the amount of iron, vitamin A, and vitamin B2 compared to chicken eggs. They are also more beneficial for brain health. Since the price of quail eggs is about double that of chicken eggs and both have good absorption rates, it is more economical and convenient to consume chicken eggs in daily life. However, if pregnant women cannot consume chicken eggs, they can consider consuming 3-4 quail eggs per day (which is equivalent to one chicken egg). Whether it is quail eggs or chicken eggs, steaming or boiling is the best way to consume them as it can achieve a digestion and absorption rate of nearly 100%.
[Other Benefits of Quail Eggs]
Quail eggs are not only a nutritious supplement but also a remedy for many diseases. Due to the presence of components like vitamin P, regular consumption of quail eggs can prevent and treat hypertension and arteriosclerosis. Stir-frying quail eggs with Chinese chives, seasoned with oil and salt, can treat kidney deficiency and lower back pain, as well as impotence. Boiling quail eggs with boiling water and rock sugar can be used as a natural remedy for pulmonary tuberculosis or chronic cough caused by lung deficiency. In addition to dietary supplementation, pregnant women still need additional protein nutritional supplements during pregnancy to maintain a balanced diet.
