Are Deviled Eggs Egg-ceptional Brain Food? | Mental Health Recipes

Deviled eggs are not only the perfect (and easy) dish to bring to any get-together but also a wonderful, protein-filled snack that nourishes your body and mind. 

Contrary to the age-old belief that eggs cause heart disease, research in recent years has proven the benefits of eating eggs regularly. In fact, the idea that this food causes heart disease has been disproven. This is one food you can feel good about!

Eggs are packed with nutrients—many of which aren’t found in a ton of other foods.

So, let’s up the ante and make the best deviled eggs.

The Best Deviled Eggs Recipe

I love keeping things simple, and deviled eggs are no exception.

I mean, why mess with a good thing? So, this deviled eggs recipe is your basic and much-beloved normal, run-of-the-mill deviled eggs. But this doesn’t mean they don’t offer your taste buds a treat. With the addition of paprika, these eggs are so yummy!

And you don’t need a ton of time to make these. You also probably have everything you need in your fridge and pantry. So, let’s throw this one together, and then we’ll dig into how this recipe can support your mental well-being in multiple ways!

How Can Deviled Eggs Enhance Your Mental Well-Being?

Eggs are a true superfood.

Filled with various beneficial and brain-boosting nutrients, this is one food that everyone should have in their daily diet. Eating them as part of this deviled eggs recipe is an excellent choice that can allow you to enjoy eggs in a more decadent way!

So, let’s take a closer look at why eggs offer so much in terms of our mental health.

Choline: The Brain-Boosting Nutrient

Eggs have a high choline content. In fact, egg yolks are one of the best dietary sources of this essential nutrient, which plays a crucial role in brain function. 

Choline is vital for the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory, mood, and cognitive performance. Adequate choline intake has further been linked to improved mental clarity, better memory retention, a lower risk of age-related cognitive decline, and a reduced risk of depression or anxiety. 

Thus, getting sufficient choline is crucial for overall well-being. And eating some eggs each day can help you do just that!

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for Brain Health

Eggs are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). 

DHA is a type of omega-3 that is essential for brain development and function.

It plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of neural cell membranes, which is vital for proper brain signaling. Studies have shown that adequate intake of omega-3s, especially DHA, can help reduce the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. 

So, what does this all mean? Well, put simply, incorporating deviled eggs into your diet can be an easy and delicious way to boost your omega-3 intake and support brain health!

Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin for Mental Well-Being

Eggs are one of the few natural food sources containing vitamin D.

Deficiencies in this vitamin have been linked to an increased risk of depression, cognitive decline, and other mental health issues. 

Yet, by consuming deviled eggs (or, really, any other type of eggs!) regularly, you can help ensure that you're getting enough vitamin D to support your mental well-being.

Protein: Building Blocks for Neurotransmitters

Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein—which isn’t just necessary for building muscles. It’s also essential for the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. 

These neurotransmitters play a key role in regulating mood and promoting feelings of happiness and well-being. In other words, adequate protein intake is crucial for maintaining mental health since a deficiency can lead to mood imbalances and an increased risk of depression.

Related Article: Brain Boosting Breakfast: The Mental Health Perks of Eggs Benedict | Mental Health Recipes

B Vitamins: Supporting Healthy Nerve Function

Deviled eggs are also a good source of several B vitamins, including vitamin B12. This essential nutrient plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy nerve cells and producing neurotransmitters that regulate mood. 

Paprika: A Flavorful Spice with Mood-Boosting Potential

Paprika is derived from ground red peppers and is rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin A and capsaicin.

These compounds have been linked to improved mood and reduced inflammation in the body.

Vitamin A, found in paprika in small amounts, further plays a role in maintaining healthy brain function and has been associated with a lower risk of depression.

Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the slight heat in paprika, has been shown to boost endorphin production, which can promote feelings of happiness and well-being.