The myth is finally debunked.
While eggs are renowned for being a nutrient-rich, protein-packed food, concerns about their cholesterol content have raised questions about their place in a heart-healthy diet. However, a recent study suggests that moderate egg consumption may actually benefit heart health, though caution is advised for individuals with preexisting heart conditions or diabetes.
The preliminary study, led by Dr. Nina Nouhravesh from the Duke Clinical Research Institute, involved 140 participants aged 50 or older, either with cardiovascular disease or at high risk for it. These risk factors include hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes. Participants were randomly assigned to either consume 12 fortified eggs per week or consume fewer than two eggs of any kind per week.
Over a four-month period, researchers observed that individuals consuming 12 fortified eggs per week exhibited similar cholesterol levels compared to those consuming fewer eggs. Furthermore, there were no adverse effects on cardiovascular health noted in the fortified egg group. In fact, participants consuming fortified eggs experienced reductions in total cholesterol levels, insulin resistance, and high-sensitivity troponin, a marker of heart damage. They also showed increased levels of vitamin B.
Fortified eggs, which are enriched with additional vitamins and minerals like iodine, vitamin D, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, are produced by feeding hens a specialized diet. Despite concerns about potential negative effects from cooking eggs at high temperatures, the study did not find any detrimental impacts on heart health associated with fortified egg consumption.
Moreover, there were indications of potential benefits from fortified eggs, particularly among older adults and individuals with diabetes. These benefits included increases in HDL (“good”) cholesterol and decreases in LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. However, experts emphasize the need for further research in larger studies to confirm these findings.
Overall, while the study offers promising insights into the potential cardiovascular benefits of fortified egg consumption, individuals with existing heart conditions or diabetes should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate dietary choices for their specific needs.
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