In honor of America’s Independence Day, we decided start on a new journey…raising chickens! That’s right! On the 4th of July, we welcomed a total of ten baby chicks into our household!
Sure, I thought it would be cool to have some chickens running around. I love farm fresh eggs. I figured, why not?!
Let me tell you, raising these chicks from little fur balls in the palms of your hands to “teenager chickens” has by far exceeded my expectations! They grow up so fast! It was amazing to watch them evolve each day. These birds are full of personality! Don’t let them fool you. Chickens are quite the fun and affectionate characters.
I look forward to coming home and participating in what I like to call “chicken therapy.” Chicken therapy is spending quality time outdoors with the chickens. I head over to the chicken coop and announce my presence. The chickens flock to the door with excitement to greet me. Some of the chickens jump up on my arm or shoulder. Some prefer to receive attention and petting while on the ground. They chirp and chatter with joy as if they have so much to tell me about the day. They cluck even more with the surprise of some tasty and healthy treats! (Of course, I have to make sure the chickens eat well, too!) Some of their favorite treats are cucumbers, squash, pumpkin and oats with some greens or herbs.
This new adventure is contributing to my wellness in multiple ways:
Raising chickens provides a sense of purpose. I care for them and will receive many nutritious eggs for our household and other members of my community.
Chickens eat pests, including the pesky ticks! Chickens are a natural pesticide for the yard that will protect humans and pets. The chickens increase their healthy protein intake while we decrease our risk of Lyme disease. It’s a win!
Caring for my own chickens helps with ensuring the quality ingredients of food that my chickens eat so I know that I’m also eating the better-quality eggs. If I’m feeding the happy chickens nutritious produce scraps and herbs, I will be able to eat more eggs loaded with more nutrients than the typical store-bought eggs.
Chickens help with reducing waste. Since owning chickens, I realized how much food waste I used to throw away on a regular basis! It was shocking! Now, we save scraps of produce to feed the chickens for their treats. It’s rewarding to create less trash for a good cause.
Now, let’s get back to the amazing health benefits of fresh farm eggs! My chickens won’t be ready to lay eggs until around the winter holidays, but I want to mention some of the many benefits to adding fresh eggs to your meals.
Eggs contain iron. Iron is important for transporting oxygen throughout the bloodstream and to our vital organs. If you are anemic or have low iron, you can add more eggs to your meals to help your body absorb more iron.
Eggs are a good source of choline. Choline is a nutrient that is responsible for maintaining healthy cells and basic functions of the brain.
Eggs contain potassium. Potassium is an important electrolyte for regular heart and muscle activity.
Eggs are a great source of protein. Protein is important for a healthy metabolism, immune system, weight loss, and enhances the healing process after injuries.
Eggs are high in antioxidants which can help fight off agents that cause diseases and cancers.
Eggs are a good source of vitamin D and calcium. We need calcium and vitamin D for healthy bones, muscles and immune system.
Farm fresh eggs tend to have less fat and more nutrients than regular store-bought eggs. Eggs at the grocery store may be cheaper than farm-fresh eggs, but you’re also buying more nutrients. It’s worth the investment for your health to squeeze in some more nutrients into your meals.
I hope this post has helped you learn about some of the many healthy reasons to raise chickens or swap out some store eggs for some farm eggs. You can add more nutrients, wellness and fun to your life. You don’t want to miss out!
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