What are the benefits of eating fertilized duck eggs?

Balut (fertilized duck egg) has long been a favorite and familiar dish for many people. So, what are the benefits of eating balut?

The benefits of fertilized duck eggs

An article on the Hong Ngoc Hospital website states that fertilized duck eggs have the effect of nourishing yin, enriching blood, improving intelligence, and promoting rapid growth. Vietnamese coriander (rau răm) is said to dispel cold, aid digestion, improve eyesight, disinfect, strengthen the legs and knees, warm the stomach, and treat bloating and indigestion… Fresh ginger stimulates digestion, strengthens the heart, detoxifies food, and combats sexual dysfunction… According to traditional medicine, fertilized duck eggs eaten with spices are a remedy used to treat anemia, weakness, stunted growth, headaches, dizziness, and sexual dysfunction.

Nutrition experts say that one fertilized duck egg contains 182kcal of energy, 13,6g of protein, 12,4g of lipids, 82mg of calcium, 212mg of phosphorus, 600mg of cholesterol… In addition, it also contains many vitamins A, a small amount of iron, carbohydrates, vitamins B1 and C… However, it is essential to consume it in the correct dosage and manner to achieve the desired effect.

What is the appropriate amount of fertilized duck eggs to eat?

According to the Health & Life newspaper, Dr. Bui Van Phao, former Director of Nam Dinh Traditional Medicine Hospital, said that fertilized duck eggs are difficult to digest due to their high protein and cholesterol content. The doctor advises against eating them in the evening, as they can cause discomfort, bloating, and harm the digestive system. The best time to eat this dish is in the morning, but it shouldn't be eaten too frequently or in large quantities at once.

Children under 5 years old should not eat too many fertilized duck eggs because their digestive systems are not yet fully developed, which can easily lead to bloating, digestive disorders, and is very harmful to their health.

Children aged 5 and above should only eat half an egg at a time, once or twice a week. Eating fertilized eggs frequently can lead to excess vitamin A, causing yellowing of the skin, peeling of the epidermis, and affecting bone formation, resulting in incomplete development in children.

In addition, obese people, the elderly, and patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease should also limit their consumption of this dish. Healthy adults should ideally only eat 2 fertilized duck eggs per week.