Cholesterol and Eggs: How Often Can You Eat Eggs with High Cholesterol?

Cholesterol & Eggs

Hello, I would like to ask why individuals with high cholesterol levels in health check-ups should not eat eggs every day, considering that low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the "bad" cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is the "good" cholesterol? How often can they eat an egg?

QQ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/14

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition

Dear QQ,
Hello! The human body has two main sources of cholesterol.
A significant portion is synthesized by the body, particularly in the liver.
The other source is dietary intake, which can influence the liver's cholesterol production to some extent.
Cholesterol in food is mostly combined with fatty acids to form esters, which are converted into free cholesterol by the action of esterases in the intestine before being absorbed.
Cholesterol in the body is stored in the liver and is insoluble in water, so it cannot be transported directly through the bloodstream.
When needed, the liver synthesizes lipoprotein-cholesterol particles to carry it.
Excess cholesterol in body tissues (such as in arterial walls) or in dead cells is transferred to high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which transports it back to the liver for metabolism, oxidation, or conversion into bile acids, ultimately excreted through the enterohepatic circulation.
Therefore, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol is referred to as "good cholesterol."
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), on the other hand, serves as a medium for the liver to transport fatty acid molecules to cellular tissues.
LDL-C, which carries cholesterol, delivers it to the arteries.
Small and highly concentrated LDL-C can easily accumulate in endothelial cells, leading to narrowing of the arteries and the development of atherosclerosis, hence it is often referred to as "bad cholesterol." When the levels of LDL in the blood are significantly higher than those of HDL, excess cholesterol in the body cannot be excreted and accumulates in the arteries in the form of lipoprotein-cholesterol, causing oxidative stress and inflammation in endothelial cells, leading to loss of elasticity.
This is a primary cause of vascular disease, and changes in lipoprotein density ratios are closely related to the fatty acids consumed in the diet.

Therefore, in addition to monitoring dietary cholesterol intake, it is important to avoid animal fats and trans unsaturated fatty acids.
For healthy individuals, consuming one egg per day is generally acceptable, but for those with abnormal lipid levels, it is recommended to limit intake to 2 to 3 eggs per week.
However, a balanced diet should be prioritized, with increased intake of dietary fiber and water, along with regular exercise, to help lower levels of bad cholesterol in the body.
Wishing you health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Dietitian Shih Kuei-Mei
Director of Nutrition Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2015/08/14

More Info

When it comes to dietary cholesterol and eggs, the conversation can often be confusing, especially for individuals concerned about their cholesterol levels. The relationship between dietary cholesterol, particularly from eggs, and blood cholesterol levels has been a topic of debate for many years.
Firstly, it’s important to clarify the types of cholesterol. Cholesterol in the body is carried by lipoproteins, which are classified into high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). HDL is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream, while LDL is known as "bad" cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Eggs, particularly the yolk, are known to be high in cholesterol. A single large egg contains about 186 mg of cholesterol, all of which is found in the yolk. However, recent research suggests that for most people, dietary cholesterol has a minimal impact on blood cholesterol levels. The body regulates its cholesterol levels by adjusting the amount it produces based on dietary intake. For many individuals, consuming eggs does not significantly raise LDL cholesterol levels.

For those with high cholesterol, the general recommendation has shifted. It is now understood that the overall quality of the diet is more important than focusing solely on cholesterol intake. For individuals with elevated LDL cholesterol, it is advisable to limit saturated fats and trans fats, which have a more significant impact on blood cholesterol levels than dietary cholesterol itself.
So, how often can someone with high cholesterol eat eggs? The consensus among nutritionists and health professionals is that for most people, consuming one egg per day is acceptable and can be part of a healthy diet. However, for individuals with specific health concerns, such as heart disease or diabetes, it may be prudent to limit egg consumption to a few per week and focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.

In your case, if you have high LDL cholesterol, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized advice based on your overall health, dietary habits, and cholesterol levels. It’s also essential to monitor your cholesterol levels regularly and make dietary adjustments as needed.

In summary, while eggs are a nutritious food source, moderation is key, especially for those with high cholesterol. Eating one egg a day is generally considered safe for most people, but individual circumstances may vary. Always prioritize a balanced diet and consult with healthcare professionals for tailored advice.

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