Egg Yolk

🥚 What is Egg Yolk?
Egg yolk is the yellow portion of an egg, known for its rich flavor and creamy texture. It contains fats, proteins, choline, vitamin D, and other nutrients, and is commonly used in sauces, baked goods, custards, and dressings.

🤔 Why Might I Experience a Reaction to Egg Yolk and Its Components?
Reactions to egg yolk may occur for several reasons:

Proteins (Livetin & Phosvitin)

Egg yolk contains unique proteins such as livetin and phosvitin. These may be more reactive for certain individuals and may not be digested as easily as the proteins found in egg whites.

Fat and Cholesterol Content

Egg yolks are naturally high in fats and cholesterol. These components may be more difficult to digest and may contribute to discomfort in sensitive systems.

Immune Sensitivity

Some individuals may be more sensitive to compounds present in the yolk, which may influence digestive comfort or overall tolerance.

🛠️ What Might Help?

• Remove egg yolks from your diet for 8 weeks to reduce exposure.

• Check ingredient labels for hidden yolks in foods like mayonnaise, custards, or creamy sauces.

• After 8 weeks, gradually reintroduce egg yolks to observe any changes in tolerance.

💊 Supportive General Supplements
These may support overall digestive wellness:

• Digestive Enzymes: May support the breakdown of fats and yolk proteins.

• Probiotics: May help maintain a balanced digestive environment.

• L-Glutamine: May support gut lining integrity.

• Curcumin: May support a calm and balanced inflammatory response.

🌟 Why Might I Experience a Reaction to Egg Yolk but Not Egg White?

Protein Differences

Egg yolks contain livetin and phosvitin—proteins not present in egg whites. Individuals who tolerate albumin (the main egg white protein) may still respond differently to yolk proteins.

Fat Composition

The yolk contains significantly more fat and cholesterol than the white, which may influence digestibility for those sensitive to fats.

Nutrient Density

Egg yolks contain a more complex nutrient profile, while whites are simpler and primarily composed of protein.

🍽️ Popular Dishes Containing Egg Yolk

• Custards

• Hollandaise sauce

• Carbonara

• Mayonnaise

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated)

• Commercial egg replacers

• Flaxseed meal mixed with water

• Applesauce or mashed banana (for baking)