Eggs and CHolesterol

Back in the news recently has been the humble egg. At first it may sound like we’ve gone full circle on this as years ago it was advised to reduce egg consumption due to cholesterol concerns. However nutrition is never that black and white. 

The latest research was an observational study which means it shows us some possible associations but no clear cut “change a and get b” affects. 

It showed eating eggs could increase cholesterol levels. Each egg was associated with a 2.2% risk of CV disease. Sounds negative but let’s crack the egg 🍳.

Cholesterol is a nutrient that our body needs. It is used to build the structure of cell membranes. make hormones, help your metabolism work efficiently and cholesterol is essential for your body to produce vitamin D.

Consuming an additional 300 milligrams of dietary cholesterol per day was associated with a 3.2% higher risk of heart disease and a 4.4% higher risk of early death. Sounds scary in those terms but it’s all to be taken within context.

👉🏼This study was not an observational study rather than a randomised controlled trial which means it’s not gold standard evidence but there are interesting associations.

👉🏼We don’t have all the info on the diets/lifestyle of these people. It may be the eggs were being eaten in the context of a cooked breakfast or on top of a burger. Or it could be that it was an egg salad.

👉🏼The people who had the increase in cholesterol may have exercised less, been smokers or had a higher saturated fat diet. There are many variables that are not controlled for here.

👉🏼Genetics also play a role. Some people have a allele that makes them more sensitive to cholesterol. This could explain some of the studies results as well.

So should we all stop eating eggs? Hell, No. Eggs are nutritious and a good way to get protein, iron, zinc and even some vitamin D from (in some cases). Eating 3-4 eggs a week is still good advice to follow.
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