- How It Helps: Just like bones, your teeth rely on calcium to stay strong and healthy. The minerals in eggshells can help remineralize enamel, reduce tooth sensitivity, and support overall oral health.
- What You Can Expect: If you regularly consume eggshells (in the proper form), you may notice healthier, stronger teeth with less sensitivity.
4. Supports Healthy Digestion
- How It Helps: Eggshells can help balance the alkaline levels in your stomach, promoting better digestion. The calcium carbonate in eggshells can neutralize stomach acid, which may help with conditions like acid reflux or heartburn.
- What You Can Expect: Consuming eggshells may aid digestion and reduce gastritis or indigestion, leading to a more comfortable and efficient digestive system.
How to Soak and Use Eggshells for Their Benefits:
1. How to Soak Eggshells:
- Step 1: Clean the Eggshells: Start by rinsing the eggshells thoroughly to remove any residue or membrane. Let them dry completely.
- Step 2: Crush the Eggshells: After drying, crush the eggshells into smaller pieces. You can use a mortar and pestle or a blender to break them down into a fine powder if you prefer.
- Step 3: Soak the Eggshells: Place the crushed eggshells in a jar and cover them with apple cider vinegar or water. Vinegar will help break down the calcium carbonate, making it easier to absorb. Let the eggshells soak for 24-48 hours, shaking the jar occasionally.
- Step 4: Strain and Consume: After soaking, strain the liquid to remove any solid bits. You can consume the liquid (which is now full of dissolved calcium), or you can use the eggshell powder in your food, such as smoothies, baked goods, or sprinkled over salads.
2. How to Use Eggshells in Your Diet:
- Eggshell Powder: Once you’ve soaked and crushed your eggshells into powder form, you can sprinkle a small amount (about 1/2 teaspoon) into smoothies, juices, or sprinkle it on your food. You can also add the eggshell powder to homemade toothpaste for an added boost of calcium.
- Calcium Supplement: You can use the soaked eggshells as a natural calcium supplement by taking the dissolved solution (in small amounts, like a tablespoon) or adding the powder to your daily intake.
Additional Uses for Soaked Eggshells:
1. Garden Fertilizer
- Eggshells are a fantastic, natural way to fertilize your garden. They provide calcium to your soil and can help detoxify plants from toxins. Simply crush the dried eggshells and sprinkle them around plants or mix them into the soil.
2. Natural Pest Repellent
- Eggshells are known to deter pests like slugs and snails in the garden. The sharp edges of crushed eggshells irritate their soft bodies, helping to protect your plants naturally.
3. Skin Care
- Eggshells can be used in DIY skincare treatments. When powdered, they can be used as a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells or as part of a face mask to help rejuvenate the skin.
Conclusion:
Eggshells are much more than just waste material from cooking—they’re a nutrient-rich resource with amazing benefits for your health and home. By soaking and using them properly, you can access the full range of benefits that eggshells offer, from supporting bone health and digestion to naturally fertilizing your garden. Next time you crack an egg, don’t throw away the shell—soak it and discover its incredible uses! 🥚✨
