Eggs and Cholesterol: What's the Truth?
Egg-citing news for egg-lovers that worry about their cholesterol!
Although eggs have been advertised as a lean protein for years, many consumers shy away from them for one big reason: cholesterol. A little research can go a long way, and it turns out that eggs aren't as bad for heart health as was originally thought. Of course, there are caveats, but only in terms of special dietary needs. Overall, eggs are still one of the healthiest and leanest protein options. They're extremely versatile and can be eaten scrambled for breakfast, hard-boiled for lunch, or in a casserole for dinner. Don't fear eggs any longer!
For some healthy egg recipes for lunch, try these9 Eggcellent Egg Salad Recipes: Quick and Easy Healthy Recipes
Bad News First...
As you probably already knew, eggs do contain a large amount of cholesterol--about 186 milligrams of it. All of this is found in the yolk, so if your cholesterol is a concern, then focus on egg white recipes like this Egg White Scramble or these Egg Whites with Cauliflower. You'll only get half the amount of protein of a whole egg but no added cholesterol.
If you also have diabetes, you'll definitely want to check out those egg white recipes, as even eating a moderate amount of eggs as a diabetic could be detrimental to your health. However, if you are diabetic and following a low-carb diet (which is already recommended for diabetics), eggs could also lower your risk of heart disease.
...and The Good!
For the most part, eating a moderate amount of eggs (1 egg per day) will have no lasting impact on one's overall heart health. Just be careful as to what you pair your eggs with, i.e. greasy hash browns or sausage may negatively impact your cholesterol levels. Try this Asparagus, Bacon, and Herbed Goat Cheese Frittata or these Chicken and Egg Breakfast Muffins for an easy and healthy egg recipe.
Eggs no longer have to be a feared food! In essence, the way best way to eat eggs is the same way recommended for everything else delicious: in moderation. Just like eating ice cream for every meal isn't the healthiest choice, neither is eating eggs, but that doesn't mean to never touch them again. Eggs are so versatile that it's hard to be sick of them, but they're also an incredibly easy (and cheap!) way to add protein to any meal.
Now try some of these other egg-cellent recipes!
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Mini Potato-Crusted Egg Bakes-Isn't everything cuter when it's in miniature form? This recipe makes just enough for one!
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Mexican Eggs Benedict- Feeling a little Mexican flair this morning? This unique Egg's Benedict recipe even has avocado hollandaise.
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Spring's Best Baked Omelet-This baked casserole is perfect for chilly spring mornings.
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Kale, Veggie and Egg Rice Bowl-Pack a super healthy lunch with the superfood kale--and eggs, of course!