Eggs have long been a staple food in many diets around the world, but their consumption has been surrounded by controversy, especially regarding their impact on cardiovascular health. However, recent research has begun to clarify how many eggs are actually healthy to include in our weekly diet.
How many eggs are recommended?
According to the WHO, it has been established that consuming at least seven eggs per week can be safe and beneficial for most people, which would be equivalent to one egg a day. This number is based on studies that have analyzed the relationship between egg consumption and cardiovascular health. The benefits of eating eggs include:
- Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins (such as B12 and D), minerals (such as selenium) and antioxidants (such as lutein and zeaxanthin). These nutrients are essential for various bodily functions, including eye health and muscle maintenance.
- Effect on cholesterol: Research has shown that for most healthy people, moderate egg consumption is not associated with a significant increase in cardiovascular risk. In fact, some studies suggest that regular egg eaters may have a more favorable lipid profile.
- Individual considerations: It is important to note that recommendations may vary according to individual factors such as age, level of physical activity and pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Therefore, some people may need to adjust their intake according to their specific needs.
Perception of egg consumption
For years, eggs were considered a food that should be consumed in moderation because of their cholesterol content. It was believed that a high intake of dietary cholesterol could raise blood cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease
However, more recent studies have challenged this notion, suggesting that the effect of dietary cholesterol on blood cholesterol is less significant than previously thought.