In the past, eggs have received some bad press on account of their cholesterol content and the association of cholesterol with heart disease. Scientists now know that it is actually saturated fat in the diet that raises blood cholesterol, thus increasing heart disease risk, but other factors are coming to light in the cholesterol/heart disease jigsaw puzzle, thus helping to redeem eggs.

Eggs back, as scientists crack a puzzle

If eggs are full of cholesterol how can they be good for my heart?

While total cholesterol in the blood helps predict heart disease risk, whether it is HDL (good) or LDL (bad) cholesterol, the size of LDL particles and whether they are oxidised, can also shed light on risk. For instance, your total blood cholesterol could be low but if a large proportion of this is transported as small dense LDL particles, the risk of heart disease is increased.

Researchers have found that eating more eggs could result in larger-size LDL particles and more HDL particles,a ‘heart protective’ combination. The fat in eggs is mainly monounsaturated and this may explain its good effects on cholesterol type in our blood.

How else are eggs good for me?

Eggs are a rich source of protein, thought to increase satiety after eating them and they may help with weight loss. Eggs are also rich in vitamins C, D, E, B12, folic acid and the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin that may help protect against macular degeneration and eye cataracts in elderly people.

What easy ways are there to include eggs in my diet?

Why not rustle up the occasional omelette, enjoy homemade pancakes, savoury or sweet, and Yorkshire puddings. Or make wholemeal eggy bread with low fat milk.

So let’s keep egg-friendly,without getting too eggstravagant, just keep them a part of a healthy,balanced and varied diet.

For more information and advice about healthy living, contact Heart Research UK on 0113 297 6206 or e-mail lifestyle@heartresearch.org.uk