Unscrambling the Science Behind Eggs

Eggs have gotten a bit of a bad reputation over the years. First they’re good for you, then they’re cholesterol bombs and now they’re OK again? Many years ago, people began to avoid eggs fearing theirdietary cholesterol content(just one egg has more than 70% of the Daily Value of cholesterol), since increased blood cholesterol levels are associated with heart disease.

However, despite this outdated thinking, research has showndietarycholesterolhas nominal effects on blood cholesterol levels. Basically, this means the cholesterol we eat in foods isn’t influencing the kind of cholesterol measured at the doctor’s office. Since public opinion seems to be all over the place, we dig through recent research, take a look at the nutrition content of eggs and offer a few ways to incorporate eggs into your diet.

The science around eggs has changed drastically in the past several decades, mainly due to a better understanding about the relationship betweendietary cholesteroland blood cholesterol levels. Turns out, most of the cholesterol in our body is made in the liver and isn’t really derived from the cholesterol we eat. As such, in 2015, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA)removed daily limits on dietary cholesterol intake, so you can breathe a sigh of relief if you eat a couple of eggs a day. In addition,the DGArecommend including eggs as a source of many key macro and micronutrients.

Eggs are sources of key macronutrients like protein and unsaturated fats as well as micronutrients like vitamin A, B vitamins, calcium and iron. Egg protein contains all essential amino acids, meaning it is a complete source of protein. Eggs also contain heart healthy poly and monounsaturated fats. Vitamin A is important for eye health, immunity and metabolism. B vitamins support metabolism, muscle and nerve health. Calcium is key for dental health, nerve health, muscle health and bone health. Iron bolsters heart health and metabolism.

Eggs also contain less familiar nutrients like choline, lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye, brain and nerve health. In addition, some brands of eggs are enriched with other nutrients like omega-3’s and vitamin D.

Eggs are a versatile and healthy option forbreakfast,lunchor dinner. They can be scrambled, poached, hard boiled, baked, fried or microwaved. One of my favorite ways to enjoy eggs onbusy morningsis to scramble two eggs with some sharp cheddar in the microwave, place on top a whole-wheat bagel with some arugula and hot sauce. It’s portable, easy and nutritious.

I also love using eggs in aveggie frittata. Usually by the end of the week, I don’t want to cook anything too complicated and also have a couple of veggies to use in my crisper drawer. That’s where an easy frittata comes in. Whisk together eggs, your favorite veggies, milk and some cheese and then pop into the oven until the eggs set. I usually pair this with a side of roasted potatoes or whole-wheat bread.

Don’t let outdated information cloud your judgment about eggs. Instead, try to incorporate them as part of a healthy eating pattern that includes lean protein, whole grains, healthy fats and plenty of fruits and veggies.