Eggs have an unfair reputation attributed to their high cholesterol, however beyond their more well-known good properties (hello iron, zinc and vitamin E), scientists also discovered expectant (animal) mothers who consumed cholin (an essential nutrient found in eggs) had babies with a better memory and high brain function than those who did not. Evidence shows cholin is directly related to brain development. It doesn't appear to be a short-term benefit either; the increased mental activity was still detectable into adulthood.

Don't be quick to dismiss eggs if you're a male and/or not pregnant: the antioxidants lutein and zeanxanthin (say that quickly five times in a row) found in egg yolks are credited with protecthing eyes from ultraviolet rays and reducing the risk of eye disorderds, including cataracts (by 20 per cent) and macular degeneration (by up to 40 per cent). Though vegetables like broccoli and spinach also contain the antioxidants, the body absorbs them more effectively when the source is provided by eggs.

Poach, boil or scramble your eggs as opposed to frying them and avoid loading on the high-fat cheese. Good eyesight and increased mental capacity won't do you much good if you die young from a clogged artery, now will it?

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