Eggs & Heart Health: Debunking the Controversy and Exploring Benefits
Eggs have long been considered a controversial topic when it comes to heart health. Many people believe that their high cholesterol content can negatively affect heart health, but new research suggests that this may not be the case.[0] In fact, studies have shown that consuming 2-3 eggs per week may even have some potential health benefits, with protective effects against heart disease and other chronic diseases.
Dr Nishith Chandra, Principal Director of Interventional Cardiology at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute in New Delhi, and Deepti Khatuja, Head of Clinical Nutrition at FMRI in Gurugram, explain that eggs can be a good addition to a healthy, well-balanced diet.[0] They are a good source of several important nutrients, including protein, vitamins, and minerals, and the yolk of an egg contains choline, which has been linked to lower rates of heart disease.[1]
Moreover, eggs contain high quality nutrients, such as proteins, minerals, fat-soluble vitamins and iron. Vitamins B2, B12, and selenium are known to be cardioprotective and help combat oxidative stress, which is a main component of heart disease.[0]
32 years of data has also shown that eggs do not have any threat to one’s heart and their real benefits outdo the presence of minimal saturated fats.[2] The study described the 10-year cardiovascular effects of self-reported egg consumption and found an even lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease for those eating four to seven eggs a week.
However, it is important to consider individual factors and overall dietary patterns when making decisions about egg consumption.[1] Eating eggs along with other foods high in salt, saturated fat, and cholesterol, such as bacon, cheese, and butter can increase heart disease risk and should be eaten sparingly. It is also recommended to combine eggs with a source of fiber and fat, and a variety of vegetables for a wholesome nutrition.
0. “Two to three eggs a week can reduce risk of heart disease, says new study” The Indian Express, 14 Feb. 2023, https://indianexpress.com/article/health-wellness/two-to-three-eggs-a-week-can-reduce-risk-of-heart-disease-says-new-study-8444015/
1. “Does eating 2-3 eggs every week reduce the risk of heart disease?” msnNOW, 16 Feb. 2023, https://www.msn.com/en-in/health/nutrition/does-eating-2-3-eggs-every-week-reduce-the-risk-of-heart-disease/ar-AA17zGmj?li=BB120Tbb
2. “Eggs are not bad for heart health; here's how to enhance their weight loss benefits” Times of India, 18 Feb. 2023, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/weight-loss/eggs-are-not-bad-for-heart-health-heres-how-to-enhance-their-weight-loss-benefits/photostory/98004655.cms
