For years, we were told a simple equation:
- High blood cholesterol is bad for you.
- Eggs contain cholesterol.
- Therefore, eggs must be bad for you.
This belief stuck around for decades. Many people, especially from older generations, still avoid eggs because of this outdated advice.
But science has moved on.
Eggs are not the enemy. In fact, they are packed with essential nutrients and are one of the most versatile and easy-to-prepare foods.
The Science Behind Cholesterol
Not all cholesterol is bad. The key is understanding the balance between LDL (low-density lipoprotein, “bad” cholesterol) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein, “good” cholesterol).
- LDL can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing heart disease risk.
- HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing risk.
- The ratio of LDL to HDL matters more than total cholesterol intake from food.
What Should You Focus On?
Instead of cutting out eggs, focus on what truly impacts heart health:
- Increase fiber intake – Fiber helps lower LDL cholesterol.
- Stay active – Regular exercise boosts HDL cholesterol.
- Limit processed foods – Ultra-processed foods and trans fats are far more harmful than eggs.
A Must-Watch Animation on This Topic
If you know someone still avoiding eggs due to outdated science, share this great animation by TED-Ed: Watch Here.
It explains LDL vs. HDL in a simple, engaging way and highlights why eggs aren’t the culprit. Plus, it’s a great example of how a well-crafted animation can make complex science easy to understand.
