Study finds eggs may be OK, after all

Researchers say cholesterol fears with eggs may be overblown – but talk to your cardiologist

For years, we’ve heard warnings about eggs. They don’t come with a warning label, but doctors have long cautioned against eating too many for fear of raising that dreaded “bad” cholesterol level.

But now, researchers are finding that eggs may not be as problematic as once thought.

According to a report on the Today Show, people who ate 12 fortified eggs a week had cholesterol levels similar to those who followed a non-egg diet. Participants ate the entire egg, yolk included, and researchers found there was not a negative impact on cholesterol levels.

The fortified eggs are the ones that have more omega-3 fatty acids, iodine and added vitamins, Today notes.

The study is to be presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session this week.

The Today Show notes that the study involved 140 people with heart disease or at high risk for it.

Over the course of the four month-long study, researchers didn’t see any adverse effects on cardiovascular health for the people who were in the egg group.

In fact, there was an indication of potential benefits for those who ate eggs vs. those who did not, Today notes.

Those benefits include improved insulin resistance and an increase in HDL cholesterol (the good one) and a drop in the LDL cholesterol (the bad one), researchers said.

Readers, that’s fascinating.

The Today Show spoke with a cardiologist not related to the study who said, “Eggs are not the villain.” He noted they are a great source of protein and nutrients, and can be enjoyed “in moderation.” But here’s the best part of the Today report.

The cardiologist, Dr. James O’keefe, is a member of the American College of Cardiology’s nutrition and lifestyle workgroup.

“In science, we’re proud to change our mind. These are interesting, powerful new studies. The old advice was wrong and we’re not embarrassed about it. It was based on inadequate information,” O’keefe noted.

That’s a statement that’s rarely said – but one that’s needed.

Science is forever evolving and changing as we unlock more information. What applied 50 years ago may not apply today, because we are, as humans, constantly learning. And as we learn more, it’s important to say so – and explain the change in thinking.

However, for lovers of all things eggy, this is great news.

If you have heart disease or other cardiovascular concerns, talk to your doctor about this study – it might be time to reintroduce those eggs to your breakfast routine!