From the Guidelines
Egg consumption is generally neutral to potentially beneficial for most people in terms of inflammation, as they contain anti-inflammatory nutrients like vitamin D, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, and their dietary cholesterol has minimal impact on blood cholesterol levels for most individuals. The relationship between eggs and inflammation has been controversial, but recent studies suggest that eggs may have both pro- and anti-inflammatory characteristics, which could have significant consequences for chronic illnesses and immunological responses to acute injury 1. Eggs are high in dietary cholesterol and protein, with approximately 200 mg of cholesterol and 5-7.5 g of total protein per egg. However, a meta-analysis found that high egg consumption (>1 egg/d) was associated with decreased coronary artery disease (CAD) risk, but not with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk 1.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the effect of egg consumption on inflammation include:
- The cooking method, as boiled or poached eggs are healthier options compared to fried eggs cooked in inflammatory oils
- The overall dietary pattern, as consuming eggs as part of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods is reasonable
- Individual factors, such as egg allergies or specific inflammatory conditions, which may require personalized guidance from a healthcare provider
- The potential benefits of other dietary components, such as prebiotics and probiotics, which have regulatory effects on inflammatory diseases and can promote a healthy and diverse gut microbiota 1.
For most healthy adults, a typical intake of up to one egg daily is likely appropriate, but it is essential to consider individual circumstances and consult with a healthcare provider if necessary. A balanced diet that is low in inflammatory foods and high in whole, nutrient-dense foods can help support immune function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including inflammatory diseases 1.
From the Research
Effect of Egg Consumption on Inflammation
- Egg consumption has been studied for its potential effects on inflammation, with some studies suggesting that eggs may have anti-inflammatory properties 2, 3.
- A meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials found that egg consumption had no significant effect on serum biomarkers of inflammation in adults, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) 4.
- Eggs contain various bioactive compounds, including omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects 5, 6.
- However, the evidence on the relationship between egg consumption and inflammation is inconsistent, and more research is needed to fully understand the effects of eggs on inflammatory processes 3.
Mechanisms of Anti-Inflammatory Effects
- The anti-inflammatory effects of eggs may be due to the presence of bioactive compounds, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines 5.
- Egg white proteins and their derived peptides have also been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which may contribute to their potential health benefits 2.
- The resolution of inflammation is an important process in maintaining health, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in eggs, have been shown to play a role in this process by stimulating the production of specialized proresolving mediators 6.
Limitations and Future Research
- The current evidence on the effects of egg consumption on inflammation is limited, and more research is needed to fully understand the relationships between egg consumption, inflammation, and health outcomes 4, 3.
- Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms by which eggs may exert anti-inflammatory effects, and to determine the optimal amount and type of egg consumption for potential health benefits 2, 5.