Let’s crack down on how eggs can still fit into a heart-healthy diet.
Eggs are a delicious and versatile kitchen staple that is the star of a variety ofquick and easy meals.
However, eggs also have a long history of being vilified as unhealthy because they are high in cholesterol.
Jennifer Causey
Diet and lifestyle play an important role in lowering one’s risk of heart disease.
Cholesterol aside, eggs offer avariety of essential nutrients.
What’s the Link Between Eggs and Cholesterol?
Cholesterolis made in the body as well as obtained through food.
In fact, the majority of cholesterol is produced by your body (about 80%).
Besides diet, genetics also play a significant role in a person’s cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol has many functions in the body, including hormone production and human tissue structure.
There are two different types of cholesterol, per theCDC.
Population-based studies have not consistently found a strong association between egg intake and cholesterol levels.
For those more sensitive to dietary cholesterol, higher intakes of eggs increased both their LDL and HDL.
When the ratio of LDL and HDL was maintained, there was no significant increase in heart disease.
Can Eggs Increase Your Cholesterol Levels?
Yes, egg intake can have a minimal impact on your cholesterol levels.
However, eggs alone will likely not significantly increase the risk of heart disease down the road.
Are Egg Whites Better for Cholesterol?
Most of the cholesterol in an egg is contained in the yolk.
Besides cholesterol, the yolk is also packed with a lot of nutrients likefat-soluble vitamins, choline and lutein.
Eating whole eggs means getting all the nutritional benefits out of the egg.
How Many Eggs Can You Eat per Day?
The Bottom Line
Eggs can be agreat source of proteinand other essential nutrients.
However, check with your doctor if you have high cholesterol and particular questions about your egg intake.
Looking for a healthy way to add eggs to your diet?
