Eating Egg Yolks: Health Risks, Benefits, and Things to Keep in Mind

Eggs are a popular food, prized for their high-quality protein content, essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that promote overall health.

While egg whites are often praised for being low in calories and high in protein, egg yolks are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, D, E, B12, choline, and good fats that support brain, heart, and eye health.

It is important to consult a doctor to consume eggs safely. Egg whites are still a healthy choice for many people. However, egg yolks are not suitable for everyone, according to the Times of India .

People with high cholesterol, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, gout, or egg allergies may need to limit or avoid eating egg yolks to prevent health complications.

Egg yolks are not suitable for everyone.

Photo: AI

People with high cholesterol and risk of heart disease

Egg yolks are notorious for being high in cholesterol – one yolk contains about 185 mg of cholesterol. For most people, eating eggs in moderation is safe.

However, people with high cholesterol levels, a history of heart disease, or a genetic predisposition to hypercholesterolemia are more susceptible to the effects of dietary cholesterol. Excess cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Eating an egg a day: Good or bad for the heart?

People with heart-related conditions should consult a health professional to ensure adequate egg intake in their diet.

People with diabetes

Eggs are a healthy food for many people, but people with type 2 diabetes may need to be cautious about eating egg yolks. Some studies have shown that high levels of cholesterol in the diet may worsen cardiovascular complications in people with diabetes.

To reduce the risk, people with diabetes should combine egg yolks with foods rich in fiber, lean protein and healthy fats.

Egg whites, which contain protein but no cholesterol, are often recommended as a safer option for people who need to control their blood sugar and heart health.

To reduce the risk, people with diabetes should combine egg yolks with foods rich in fiber, lean protein and healthy fats.

Photo: AI

People with gout

Egg yolks contain purines, a natural compound that, when broken down, produces uric acid. When uric acid builds up, it can trigger gout attacks, causing pain and inflammation in the joints.

People prone to gout should limit foods high in purines, including egg yolks, to reduce the risk of flare-ups. Staying hydrated and monitoring purine intake from other foods, such as red meat and seafood, are also important in controlling gout.

People who are taking certain medications

Some medications, such as statins (to lower cholesterol) or anticoagulants, require users to monitor their diet. While it is not always necessary to completely avoid egg yolks, moderation is important. Following your doctor’s instructions will help ensure that eggs do not interfere with the effectiveness of your medication or cause unwanted side effects.

Benefits of eating eggs

High-quality protein source: Eggs provide complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids to help build muscle, repair tissue, and support growth.

Support brain health: Egg yolks are rich in choline - a nutrient important for brain function, memory and neurotransmission.

Packed with essential vitamins and minerals: Eggs provide vitamins A, D, E, B12, selenium and iron - which support vision, bone health, the immune system and red blood cell production.

Heart health when eaten in moderation: Eggs contain good fats, including omega-3s (especially omega-3 fortified eggs), which may benefit heart health.

Good for eyes: Eggs are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin - antioxidants that help protect eyes from age-related macular degeneration and maintain good vision.

Support weight control: Eggs are rich in protein and low in calories, helping to create a feeling of fullness for a long time, supporting healthy weight loss.

Boost the immune system: Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in eggs help increase resistance, support the body in fighting inflammation and infection.

Versatile and economical food: Eggs are easy to prepare, widely available, and provide many important nutrients at a low cost.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/an-long-do-trung-rui-ro-suc-khoe-loi-ich-va-nhung-dieu-can-luu-y-185251203170859271.htm