Eggs are one of the most common breakfast foods in the world. They’re packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats — but did you know that some food combinations can actually make eggs less healthy or harder to digest? Certain foods, when eaten with eggs, may reduce nutrient absorption or cause discomfort. Here are seven foods you should never eat with eggs and the surprising reasons why.
1. Milk
Combining milk and eggs may seem natural — think scrambled eggs with milk — but it can be heavy for the digestive system. Both are rich in protein and fat, which can slow digestion and cause bloating or discomfort, especially in people with lactose intolerance.
2. Soy Products
Soy milk, tofu, or soy sauce should not be consumed with eggs. Soy contains compounds that can block protein absorption and make it harder for your body to digest egg nutrients effectively. Eating them together might reduce the nutritional benefits of both foods.
3. Tea or Coffee
Drinking tea or coffee immediately after eating eggs can interfere with iron and protein absorption. The tannins and caffeine in these beverages may also cause constipation or reduce the bioavailability of certain vitamins from the eggs.
4. Sugar
Mixing eggs with sugar — such as in sweet omelets or desserts — may cause the amino acids in eggs to react with sugar during cooking, forming compounds that are harder for the body to process. Over time, this can lead to sluggish digestion or nutrient loss.
5. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, or grapefruits are high in acids. When eaten with eggs, they can cause the proteins to curdle in the stomach, leading to discomfort or indigestion. It’s best to eat fruits at least 30 minutes before or after a meal with eggs.
6. Beans and Legumes
Both eggs and beans are high in protein, but they contain different amino acid structures that can compete during digestion. This may cause gas, bloating, or stomach heaviness. If you enjoy both, try eating them at separate meals.
7. Melons
Melons digest very quickly compared to eggs, which take longer to break down. When eaten together, melons can ferment in the stomach and cause bloating, cramps, or indigestion. For best results, eat melons alone on an empty stomach.
