From the Guidelines
Daily consumption of eggs, up to one egg per day, does not significantly increase serum cholesterol levels for most healthy individuals. This is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which reports the absence of any significant association between moderate egg consumption and fatal or non-fatal coronary heart disease 1. The study found that the risk of increased serum cholesterol levels may only increase with larger consumption, and that the response to dietary cholesterol is variable and partly under genetic control.
Key Points to Consider
- The majority of the population, referred to as 'normal responders', experience a small increase in plasma cholesterol levels with a dietary cholesterol content of 300-600 mg/day, which corresponds to three servings of two eggs per week or one egg per day 1.
- Individuals with hyperlipidaemia or diabetes may need to exercise more caution with egg consumption, and those with a western dietary pattern rich in foods with a high content of saturated fats should not exceed a weekly consumption of three eggs 1.
- The nutritional benefits of eggs, including high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, should be taken into account when considering egg consumption.
Clinical Implications
- Most healthy adults can safely consume one egg daily without measurable impacts on their cholesterol levels or heart disease risk.
- Healthcare providers should consult with individuals who have existing heart disease, diabetes, or genetic conditions affecting cholesterol metabolism to determine appropriate egg consumption.
- A balanced dietary pattern, physical activity levels, and genetic factors have a more significant impact on blood cholesterol levels than egg consumption alone.