Eggs: Cracking the Misconceptions

There are so many confusing messages about eggs. How many you should eat? And will they increase your cholesterol levels or your intake of dietary fat? Here we set the record straight:

How Many Eggs Can I Eat per Week?

You can eat up to six eggs a week - even if you have heart disease or Type 2 Diabetes (1).
You should eat eggs on a regular basis as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

Will Eggs Increase my Cholesterol Levels?

No. The main factors that increase blood cholesterol are saturated and trans fats, and eggs contain very little saturated fat and absolutely no trans fat.

Should I Eat Eggs if I am Trying to Lose Weight?

Eggs are a great source of protein, and protein-rich foods help you feel fuller for longer which can help with weight control.

Furthermore, eggs are nutrient dense, meaning that they contain a high percentage of vitamins and minerals compared to the amount of energy they provide. They contain the highest quality of protein of all foods, as well as more than a quarter of your recommended daily intake of iodine. Eggs also provide a rich source of nutrients that protect you from disease and promote cell regeneration, including omega 3 (healthy) fats, selenium and the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin (2).

So go ahead and enjoy eggs any way you like them - poached, sunny side up, scrambled, in an omelette or just plain boiled. Eggs are cheap, easy to prepare, tasty and nutritious!

References:
1) Egg Nutrition Advisory Group, 2008, Position Statement: The Role of Eggs in a Healthy Diet
2) National Heart Foundation of Australia, 2009, Dietary Fats and Dietary Sterols for
Cardiovascular Health