Eggs are among the most nutritious and versatile foods in the world. They are rich in nutrients that are essential for good health, such as proteins, vitamins and minerals.
Although eggs are often associated with high cholesterol levels, scientific studies have debunked this myth and concluded that eggs have a positive relationship with heart health. This article explores the positive relationship between eggs and heart health.
Eggs and Cholesterol
For decades, people were advised to limit their egg intake due to the high levels of cholesterol present in egg yolks. However, recent studies have shown that dietary cholesterol has only a minimal impact on blood cholesterol levels in most people.
In fact, the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that people consume as many as three eggs per day as part of a healthy diet. This is because eggs contain a type of cholesterol that is different from the cholesterol that clogs arteries and causes heart attacks and strokes.
Eggs and Heart Disease
Several studies have found that dietary cholesterol has very little impact on heart health. The Nurses’ Health Study followed more than 100,000 women over 14 years and found no evidence that egg consumption was associated with heart disease risk.
A similar study of 37,851 men also found no relationship between egg consumption and heart disease.
Additionally, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that healthy men and women who ate more than six eggs per week did not have any increased risk of developing heart disease.
In fact, the study found that egg consumption was associated with a reduced risk of stroke.
Eggs and Health Benefits
Eggs are packed with nutrients that have a positive impact on heart health, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. Here are some of the health benefits of consuming eggs:.
- Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein. In fact, eggs contain all of the essential amino acids that our bodies need.
- Eggs contain choline, a nutrient that is essential for brain development and function.
- Eggs are rich in antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are important for eye health.
- Eggs are a good source of vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune function.
- Eggs contain minerals such as iron, phosphorus, and selenium, which are important for various bodily functions.
Eggs as Part of a Healthy Diet
Eggs can and should be a part of a healthy diet. They are easy to prepare and can be used in a variety of dishes. During breakfast, omelets or scrambled eggs and toast can fuel your mind and body for the day while providing valuable nutrition.
Boiled eggs can be eaten as a snack during the day or added to salads.
Conclusion
Despite once being associated with heart disease, eggs have been found to have a positive relationship with heart health. Studies have found no evidence to support the notion that dietary cholesterol from eggs increases the risk of heart disease.
In fact, the nutrients in eggs have numerous benefits for overall health, including heart health. As a result, eggs can and should be included as part of a healthy diet.