The Egg Factor!

A few days ago, someone asked me if it was OK to eat eggs as they had a family history of high cholesterol levels. However, their own cholesterol level was normal.
There is a popular misconception that the cholesterol found in foods such as eggs or prawns is bad for you. In fact, eggs are high in protein & a cheap, nutritious food. If you are eating a balanced diet, you don't need to cut down on eggs unless advised by your GP. The cholesterol found in eggs has much less effect on cholesterol levels than the amount of saturated fat you eat. Foods like full-fat dairy products, fatty meat & some processed foods can contribute to raised LDL (bad) cholesterol level, & this is what can put you at a higher risk of heart disease. Most people do not need to limit egg intake, though your cholesterol levels could be affected by your cooking method. - Frying an egg in butter makes it higher in saturated fat than if you boil or poach it.
A good tip is to follow a heart-healthy diet containing foods such as soluble fibre (beans, lentils, oatmeal), wholegrains, nuts, lean meat & vegetables.