According to a new study set to be presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Sessions in Atlanta, consuming more than a dozen fortified eggs per week did not have a detrimental impact on cholesterol levels compared to an egg-free diet among U.S. adults aged 50 or older. This research provides further evidence that eggs, once believed to be a cause of high cholesterol, can be a part of a healthy and balanced diet, even for individuals at a higher risk of heart disease.

The study involved 140 adults over the age of 50 who either had heart disease or exhibited at least two risk factors for developing heart disease. These participants were split into two groups: one followed an egg-free diet, consuming less than two eggs per week, while the other followed a diet consisting of more than 12 fortified eggs each week. Fortified eggs contain additional vitamins (like vitamin D) and omega-3 fatty acids, usually obtained through nutrient-enriched hen feeds.

The cholesterol levels of the participants were measured at the beginning of the study and then again after four months. Surprisingly, the results indicated no significant changes in the levels of HDL ("good" cholesterol) or LDL ("bad" cholesterol) between the two groups. This suggests that consuming at least 12 fortified eggs per week did not have any adverse effects on cholesterol levels.

Dr. Nina Nouhravesh, the lead author of the study and a research fellow at the Duke Clinical Research Institute in Durham, North Carolina, highlighted the benefits of fortified eggs, which may contain enriched levels of vitamins D, B, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, and lower saturated fat. She emphasized that the study showed no negative impact on cholesterol levels over the course of four months for patients with heart disease or those at risk of developing it, when compared to those on a non-egg supplemented diet.

This new study challenges the previous notion that eggs should be avoided due to concerns about cholesterol levels. Instead, it suggests that fortified eggs can be a part of a balanced diet, particularly for older adults and those at risk of heart disease. As always, individuals should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the dietary choices that are most appropriate for their specific health needs.