This eggcellent news is nothing to yolk about.
Eggs have long been a point of contention among health experts, with some claiming the ovum is hell on the heart.
Yet, research dispels the belief that eggs are harmful to the cardiovascular system and even suggests that a daily dose of this superfood could be a bigger benefit than previously thought.
The results of a large-scale study of nearly half a million people in China over a period of nine years found that those who ate up to one egg per day had a lower risk of heart disease and stroke.
Prof Nita Forouhi from the University of Cambridge explains, “The take-home message of this research is that, at the very least, up to one egg a day is not linked with raised cardiovascular risk, and at best, up to one egg a day may even have health benefits.”
In the 21st century, eggs have fallen out of favor as a go-to, owing to reports about their negative effect on cholesterol and changing eating habits, which have seen people swap eggs for smoothies, save for this subset of ovum obsessors who down hardboiled eggs on the daily in an attempt to lose weight.
Low cost (sort of) and low calorie, an average-sized egg contains about 6 to 7 grams of protein.
According to author and specialist Dr. Federica Amati, our protein needs change as we age, and eggs are an excellent way to meet those needs. She explains that after 40, “Typically, we become more insulin resistant. And insulin is this hormone, which is really important for the uptake of all nutrients into cells, which is why there’s a recommendation for more protein for older adults.”
Amati stressed the importance of nutrient-dense meals at every age, particularly among the elderly, who suffer the consequences of dehydration and malnutrition more acutely.
A protein-rich diet is also linked to weight loss, as eggs have been shown to promote feelings of fullness, reducing the urge to overeat, especially when consumed at breakfast time.
Ian Marber, a nutrition therapist, told The Times: “Eggs are a good source of protein, which fills you up, and contain amino acids, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins D and B12. They are also naturally good sources of choline, which is needed for transmission of nerve signals, and lutein and zeaxanthin that help protect our eyes as we age.”
Lutein and zeaxanthin, found in the yolk of chicken eggs, have been shown to reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, the leading causes of blindness in people 55 and older, while egg whites contain the amino acid proline, which the body needs to produce collagen.
Low in saturated fat, eggs are also an excellent source of Riboflavin, iron, zinc, phosphorous, folate and choline.
But those miracle yolks do have some drawbacks.
As The Post reports, while eggs can be a nutrient-packed part of a healthy diet, they also contain high amounts of cholesterol, which might be questionable for people who are concerned about their LDL levels.
To keep their health sunny side up, adults are advised to limit their consumption of eggs to seven per week.
