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Many people are hesitant to eat eggs because of concerns about their effects on cholesterol levels and heart health. However, recent research questions this concept and suggests that consuming fortified eggs may not negatively impact cholesterol levels, even in people at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

Debunking myths about eggs and cholesterol

The PROSPERITY trial, presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Sessions, enrolled 140 patients with or at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

This study showed that consuming 12 or more fortified eggs per week compared to an egg-free diet (less than 2 eggs per week) lowered HDL and LDL cholesterol, as well as other effects on cardiovascular health. The aim was to assess effects on key markers over a one-year period. 4 month period.

“We know that cardiovascular disease is mediated to some degree by risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, increased body mass index, and diabetes,” explains Nina Nowhravesh, MD, a researcher at the Duke Clinical Research Institute in Durham, North Carolina. . , and lead author of this study.

“Dietary patterns and habits can have a significant impact on these, and there are many questions about whether eggs are safe to eat, especially for people who have or are at risk of heart disease. Although this is a small study, it provides reassurance that it is safe to eat fortified eggs for four months, even in higher-risk populations when it comes to fat effects. We will give you,” Nuhravesh added.

Benefits of eating fortified eggs

Eggs are a common and relatively inexpensive source of protein and dietary cholesterol. Researchers specifically focused on fortified eggs that are low in saturated fat and contain additional vitamins and minerals such as iodine, vitamin D, selenium, vitamin B2, 5, 12, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Patients in this study were randomly assigned to either eat 12 fortified eggs (prepared in some way) per week or to eat fewer than 2 eggs of any type per week. Ta.

Participants were over 50 years old, half were female, and 27% were black. All patients had previously experienced one cardiovascular event or had two cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, increased BMI, and diabetes.

Study Results: No negative effect on cholesterol levels

The study’s co-primary endpoints were LDL and HDL cholesterol levels at 4 months. Secondary endpoints included lipid, cardiometabolic, inflammatory biomarkers, and vitamin and mineral levels.

The results showed that HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol) and LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) decreased by -0.64 mg/dL and -3.14 mg/dL, respectively, in the fortified egg group.

Although these differences were not statistically significant, the researchers suggested that consuming 12 fortified eggs each week had no negative effect on blood cholesterol.

Additionally, the study observed numerical reductions in total cholesterol, LDL particle number, apoB (another lipid biomarker), high-sensitivity troponin (a marker of heart damage), and insulin resistance score in the fortified egg group; Meanwhile, vitamin B levels increased.

“Although this is a neutral study, no adverse effects on biomarkers of cardiovascular health were observed. There are also signs of potential benefits of eating fortified eggs, and here more hypotheses generated and therefore needs to be further investigated in large-scale studies,” Nuhravesh explained.

The importance of a balanced diet

So why do eggs have a bad reputation? Part of the confusion stems from the fact that egg yolks contain cholesterol.

But experts suggest it may be more important what you eat with your eggs, which are less heart-healthy options such as buttered toast, bacon, and other processed meats. There is.

As always, Nowhravesh encourages people with heart disease to talk to their doctors about a heart-healthy diet.

Although this single-center study was limited by its small size, reliance on patient self-report of egg intake and other dietary patterns, and lack of blinding, It provides valuable insight into the potential role of fortified eggs in a good diet. .

The egg-eating debate is back

In summary, the PROSPERITY trial challenges the common misconception that eggs, especially fortified eggs, have a negative impact on cholesterol levels and heart health.

The study also found that among people at high risk for cardiovascular disease, HDL cholesterol levels were significantly lower between those who ate 12 or more fortified eggs per week and those who ate fewer than 2 eggs per week. No significant difference was observed in LDL cholesterol levels.

Although more research is needed to confirm these findings, this study shows that fortified eggs can be part of a heart-healthy diet when consumed in moderation along with other nutritious foods. It suggests that there is a sex.

As always, people with heart disease should consult their doctor to develop a personalized heart-healthy diet plan.

The entire study was published by the American College of Cardiology.

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