Do eggs clog up your arteries?

As a dietary expert with a background in nutrition, I can provide some insights into the relationship between egg consumption and arterial health. Eggs are a rich source of dietary cholesterol, and for a long time, they were thought to be a direct cause of high blood cholesterol levels and, consequently, a risk factor for clogged arteries. However, more recent research has nuanced this view. A major study mentioned that egg consumption was associated with an increase in serum HDL levels, which are the "good" cholesterol that helps protect against heart disease. At the same time, it's true that LDL levels, the type often associated with clogging arteries, also increased. However, it's important to note that not all LDL is created equal; there are different subtypes, and not all of them are equally atherogenic (capable of causing plaque buildup in arteries). Eggs are also a good source of vitamin D, which is beneficial for overall health. It's the totality of one's diet and lifestyle that influences cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health, rather than any single food item. Dietary cholesterol does play a role in plaque buildup, but individual responses to dietary cholesterol can vary widely. Some people are more sensitive to the effects of dietary cholesterol on their blood cholesterol levels than others. In conclusion, while eggs do contain cholesterol, they are also packed with nutrients that can be beneficial to health. Moderation and balance in the diet are key, and it's essential to consider the entire dietary pattern rather than focusing on a single food.

One major study found that egg eating was associated with a rise in serum HDL levels �� the good, protective kind of cholesterol �� along with LDL levels, which clog arteries. Eggs are also a good source of vitamin D, according to Frid. ... Dietary cholesterol, meanwhile, helps dictate how much plaque will build up, he said.