Are Eggs Bad for Your Heart?
Dr. Jeremy London, a cardiovascular surgeon in Savannah, Georgia, recently posed the question to over a million of his followers on social media. His answer may be surprising to some.
The American Heart Association’s Stance
The American Heart Association (AHA) has long been critical of eggs, labeling them as a poor dietary source and a heart risk. However, London argues that this narrative has "softened" over the years due to the lack of evidence supporting these claims.
Eggs: A God-Made Product
London believes that eggs are an "excellent source of protein," packed with minerals and micronutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and choline. A regular egg contains about 5-6 grams of protein, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet.
Free-Range Eggs: A Better Choice?
London suggests that there may be an advantage to eating eggs produced by free-range chickens. "Just like ‘we are what we eat,’ everything we put in our mouths then are the building blocks for ourselves," he said. "The same is true for the chickens."
Yolk vs. White: Which is Better?
When it comes to the type of egg to eat, London recommends using the yolk, as the majority of the dietary benefit comes from this part of the egg. He suggests adding egg whites to increase the protein content of a dish.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether or not to eat eggs is a personal choice. London stresses the importance of listening to one’s body and following their biomarkers to create a nutritional plan that is right for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the American Heart Association’s stance on eggs?
A: The American Heart Association states that a whole egg per day can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet for healthy adults, while two eggs daily are acceptable for healthy older adults with normal cholesterol.
Q: What are the benefits of eating eggs?
A: Eggs are a rich source of protein, minerals, and micronutrients, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.
Q: Is it better to eat free-range eggs?
A: Dr. London suggests that there may be an advantage to eating free-range eggs, as the diet of the chickens may impact the nutritional value of the eggs.
Q: Which part of the egg is better for my heart?
A: Dr. London recommends using the yolk, as it contains the majority of the dietary benefits.
