Eggs are a nutritious source of protein and other essential nutrients, but people with certain health conditions may need to pay closer attention to how many whole eggs they consume.
Importantly, having one of these conditions does not automatically mean you must stop eating eggs completely. Dietary choices should take into account your overall eating pattern, saturated fat intake and individual cholesterol levels.
Here are two situations where it may be worth discussing egg consumption with a healthcare professional...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
1. High cholesterol
Egg yolks contain dietary cholesterol. If you already have high LDL cholesterol, your healthcare professional may recommend limiting foods that contribute to your overall cholesterol and saturated-fat intake.
However, eggs should not be viewed in isolation. What you eat with your eggs also matters. Eggs served with foods high in saturated fat, such as processed meats and large amounts of butter, can make the overall meal less heart-friendly.
People with high cholesterol should have their individual diet assessed rather than automatically eliminating eggs.
2. Type 2 diabetes
People with diabetes are more likely to have cholesterol abnormalities and cardiovascular risk factors, so their overall eating pattern is particularly important.
Eggs can still be included in a diabetes-friendly diet. The quantity and preparation method should, however, fit the person’s overall nutritional needs.
So, should you stop eating eggs?
For most people, there is no need to completely eliminate eggs simply because they contain cholesterol. Instead, the emphasis should be on an overall healthy eating pattern, including replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats.
If you have high cholesterol, diabetes, established heart disease or another condition affecting your cardiovascular risk, speak with your doctor or a registered dietitian before making major dietary restrictions.
The safest approach is to look at your entire diet, your cholesterol and blood-sugar levels, your medications and your individual health risks rather than assuming that one food must be completely avoided.
