#Myth: Eggs Give You High Cholesterol

 

Have you ever been told that eating eggs were bad for you because of their high cholesterol content? ...or on the flip side (pun intended), that eggs were an ideal breakfast option?

um...what?

Throughout years of research, eggs have gotten many mixed reviews regarding their health benefits. Healthy or unhealthy? New studies would reveal different conclusions every single time ─ making it all the more difficult to keep up with the truth.

In the past, most researchers believed that the cholesterol found in our foods was the main reason for high blood cholesterol and heart disease. BUT as it turns out, there are many factors that influence our blood cholesterol levels, such as:

  • The state of your health;

  • Your Genetics;

  • Your body weight;

  • Your dietary & lifestyle habits;

  • Etc.

Here’s what you really need to know about eggs and cholesterol.

1. Your Body Makes its Own Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a compound naturally found in our cells that is responsible for the daily production of hormones for our bodies’ overall functioning. Since the body produces all the cholesterol that it needs, technically speaking, you do not need cholesterol in your diet.


2. Trans and Saturated Fats are the Real Culprits

As it turns out, the cholesterol found in eggs and other animal sources, also known as ‘dietary cholesterol’, has not been shown to significantly raise our blood cholesterol levels. Even so, it’s always better not to overdo it on the high cholesterol foods!  

On the other hand, studies have shown that saturated fats and trans fats are the main contributors to raising our blood cholesterol levels – these are the compounds that you should be wary of. Check out my ‘Eating Fats Make You Fat’ Myth Buster’ for more information on this topic.


3. High Blood Cholesterol Levels Should be Avoided

Having high blood cholesterol levels can be problematic as it may be associated with heart disease and other metabolic complications. Be sure to seek advice from a medical professional if you have any concerns about your blood cholesterol.

Bottom Line: Don’t make eggs the villain.

They’re a great source of protein, vitamins and minerals. Instead, focus on the bigger picture! Think about your traditional breakfast made up of bacon & eggs. In this case, the most likely contributor to your high cholesterol levels would be the bacon, which is high in saturated fat, and not the eggs.


My best piece of advice? Eat everything in moderation!

Sources:

[1] “Cholesterol.” The Nutrition Source, 27 Feb. 2017, www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/cholesterol/ .

[2] “Understanding Eggs and Cholesterol: How many eggs can you eat?” Understanding Eggs and Cholesterol: How many eggs can you eat? - Eat Right Ontario, www.eatrightontario.ca/en/Articles/Heart-Health/Understanding-Eggs-and-Cholesterol-How-many-eggs.aspx.


[3] Foundation, The Heart. “Eggs.” The Heart Foundation, www.heartfoundation.org.au/healthy-eating/food-and-nutrition/protein-foods/eggs

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Laura NguyenComment