A certain amount of cholesterol is necessary by the body for proper physiological and structural function. Too much of it can have negative health consequences. Since cholesterol levels are influenced by your genetic makeup, your diet and certain lifestyle choices, controlling it can be a challenge. According to the newly released 2010 Dietary Guidelines, eggs and egg dishes comprise approximately 25% of total dietary cholesterol intake in the American diet. Over four decades of research suggests that healthy adults can enjoy eating as much as one egg per day. Nutrition data released last week suggests the nutritional content of eggs may be even better than previously thought. Eggs are packed with nutrition. One egg contains only about 70 calories and is a rich source of high biological value protein as well as lots of vitamins or minerals. Although most known for the cholesterol they contain, eggs are also a natural source of vitamin D. One egg provides as much as 10 percent of the RDA necessary to help with calcium absorption as well as forming and maintaining strong bones. The research released last week found that eggs are 14 percent lower in cholesterol and 64% higher in vitamin D than previously found when evaluated back in 2002. On average, a large egg now contains 185 mg of cholesterol and 41 IU of vitamin D. The exact reason for the improved egg nutrition compared to data from 2002 is unclear. However, some researchers believe it may be the result of intentional improvements to the feed provided to laying hens. Whatever the reasons for the egg nutritional improvements, at about 15 cents a nutrition packed serving, the egg remains as incredible as ever. What do you think of this new egg information? Will it change your egg eating habits? Share your favorite way to enjoy eggs. |
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