Eggs are a valuable component of our diet: almost 100 percent of the protein they contain can be utilized by the human body.
That’s how many eggs Germans eat every year
In addition to vital omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, B and K, the egg also contains calcium, folic acid, phosphorus, potassium and iron.
So it’s no wonder that eggs are so popular: on average, every German eats 235 eggs per year. But you shouldn’t overdo it: According to the recommendations of the German Nutrition Society, you should pay attention to moderate egg consumption.
In plain language this means: a maximum of three eggs per week – this also includes processed eggs, for example in pastries, pancakes or quiche.
Cholesterol in eggs: is it really that unhealthy?
In addition to important vitamins and nutrients, eggs contain one thing in particular: cholesterol. There are around 280 milligrams of cholesterol in an egg – the recommended maximum amount is just under 300 milligrams per day. But for healthy people, this is no reason to eliminate eggs from their diet.
Is a breakfast egg unhealthy?
Cholesterol from eggs in particular is much more harmless than previously thought because eggs contain the fatty substance lecithin – and this inhibits the absorption of cholesterol from eggs into the intestinal wall. So you can enjoy your breakfast egg without a guilty conscience.
One thing is certain: High cholesterol levels can narrow arteries and thus increase the risk of cardiovascular disease or a stroke. Until now, it was assumed that foods containing cholesterol increased cholesterol levels in the blood – but this connection has now been refuted.
How often you should check your cholesterol level
US nutritionists discovered that the body produces around three quarters of the cholesterol present in the body itself. You can only control blood levels to a limited extent through your diet.
People who are already at an increased risk of heart attack, for example due to being overweight or high blood pressure, have to worry about their cholesterol levels first and foremost. Healthy people who exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet don’t need to worry so much about their cholesterol levels.
By the way: A blood check as part of routine preventative care from the age of 35, which is paid for by your health insurance company, provides clarity about your current cholesterol levels.