Eggs are a common food consumed by people all over the world. They are low in calories, rich in nutrients, and easily available. Eggs are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and they are a part of a healthy diet.

However, too much of anything can be harmful, and eggs are no exception. Eating too many eggs per day can lead to an increased risk of heart disease.

What Does Research Say About Eggs And Heart Disease?

Several studies have been carried out over the years to understand the relationship between eggs and heart disease. The studies have shown mixed results, which can be confusing.

Some studies suggest that egg consumption has no impact on the risk of heart disease, while others indicate the opposite.

A study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health found that consuming one egg per day did not increase the risk of heart disease in healthy individuals.

However, for people with diabetes, consuming one egg per day increased the risk of heart disease by up to 60 percent within two years of the study. The study also found that people who regularly consume eggs had a 17 percent higher risk of developing heart disease than those who did not consume eggs.

Another study conducted in China found a correlation between egg consumption and an increased risk of heart disease.

The study involved over 400,000 participants and found that people who consumed more than one egg per day had a 17 percent higher risk of heart disease compared to those who did not consume eggs.

Why Do Eggs Increase Heart Disease Risk?

Eggs are a high source of cholesterol, and consuming too much cholesterol can lead to an increased risk of heart disease.

Cholesterol is a substance that is naturally produced by the liver and is also found in certain foods such as meat, dairy products, and eggs. When there is an excess of cholesterol in the body, it can lead to the formation of plaque in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart disease.

Eggs also contain saturated and trans fats, which can harm the heart. These fats can raise LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels in the body, which can lead to the formation of plaque in the arteries.

This makes it harder for the heart to pump blood, leading to an increased risk of heart disease.

How Many Eggs Per Day Are Safe?

There is no hard and fast rule about how many eggs are safe to consume daily. However, studies suggest that consuming less than one egg per day is unlikely to harm healthy individuals.

Healthy individuals who consume more than one egg per day may be at an increased risk of heart disease.

For people with diabetes, consuming one egg per day can increase the risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is generally recommended that people with diabetes limit their egg consumption to a maximum of three eggs per week.

It is also important to consider other sources of cholesterol and saturated fat in the diet. Consuming a diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, regardless of egg consumption.

Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.

Other Health Benefits Of Eggs

Despite the risks associated with egg consumption, eggs also offer several health benefits. They are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Eggs also contain several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, which helps in the absorption of calcium, and choline, which is crucial for brain development and function.

Egg yolks are a rich source of lutein and zeaxanthin, which are antioxidants that help in maintaining healthy eyes. Eggs also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function and heart health.

Conclusion

Eggs are a common and easily available food source, but they can also be harmful if consumed in excess. Consuming too many eggs per day can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, particularly in people with diabetes.

It is generally recommended that healthy individuals consume less than one egg per day, while people with diabetes limit their egg consumption to three eggs per week. However, it is crucial to consider other sources of cholesterol and saturated fat in the diet, as they can also increase the risk of heart disease. Overall, maintaining a balanced and healthy diet is essential for good health.