You might have heard that eating too many eggs will cause high cholesterol levels, leading to poor health. In a new study researchers looked at 8,000 people, they examined the foods people usually eat and then looked at how many participants died over a six-year period and from what causes, using medical records and official reports.
Writing on The Conversation webite, L auren Ball. Professor of Community Health and Wellbeing, and Karly Bartrim Lecturer in Nutrition and Dietetics, both from The University of Queensland said the results were collected through a food questionnaire, which included a question about how frequently participants ate eggs in the past year:
People were asked if they are them rarely – possibly once a month, 1-6 a week or every day. The pair said: “Overall, people who consumed eggs 1–6 times per week had the lowest risk of death during the study period (29% lower for heart disease deaths and 17% lower for overall deaths) compared to those who rarely or never ate eggs.
“Eating eggs daily did not increase the risk of death either.” Eggs contain cholesterol – and because of this they have been demonised by some worried about the potential impact on the body.
High cholesterol can lead to a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease and is sometimes called a ‘silent killer’ because mostly it has no symptoms until a serious problem arises.
In the article provessors Ball and Bartrim sais: “Eggs are a good source of protein, and contain B vitamins, folate, unsaturated fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K), choline, and minerals.
“The fuss over eggs comes down to their cholesterol content and how it relates to heart disease risk. A large egg yolk contains approximately 275 mg of cholesterol — near the recommended daily limit of cholesterol intake.
“In the past, medical professionals warned that eating cholesterol-rich foods such as eggs could raise blood cholesterol and increase heart disease risk. But newer research shows the body doesn’t absorb dietary cholesterol well, so dietary cholesterol doesn’t have a major effect on blood cholesterol levels.
“Rather, foods such as saturated and trans fats play a major role in cholesterol levels.” And on the issue as to if people worried about eating eggs they added: “Whether you prefer boiled, scrambled, poached, baked or fried, eggs provide a satisfying source of protein and other key nutrients.
“While the science is still out, there’s no reason to limit egg intake unless specifically advised by a recognised health professional such as an accredited practising dietitian. As always, moderation is key.”
To read the full article click here.