New research reported in the British Medical Journal that suggests a link between high-protein foods and a risk of heart disease has sparked debate over whether eggs are a healthy breakfast choice.
The report suggests that people who favour foods that are high in protein (for example, eggs) and cut out carbohydrates are 28% more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
However, according to the Food Standards Agency eggs are a good way to start the day as long as they are part of a healthy balanced diet.
The British Egg Information Service says: “Eggs are naturally rich in vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B12 and vitamin D. They also contain vitamin A and a number of other B vitamins including folate, biotin, pantothenic acid and choline. Eggs also contain essential minerals and trace elements, including phosphorus, iodine and selenium.”
The average egg contains around 6.5g of protein and 1.7g of saturated fat. Large amounts of eggs contain high levels of cholesterol, which can clog up blood vessels and lead to heart disease.
Researchers stress that their concerns aren’t focused on eggs, but rather the long-term implications of a high-protein, low-carb diet.
Experts are also worried about the fact that most high-protein foods in the Atkins diet tend to come from animal products that are high in saturated fat.
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“This study is bad news for people who follow these types of diet for long periods of time. They should be very careful about dietary regimes, the long term safety of which have not been studied adequately,” says professor Pagona Lagiou from the University of Athens, reports the Independent.
Victoria Taylor, senior dietician at the British Heart Foundation, added in a statement: “This study highlights the need for us to achieve balance in our diets, rather than pitting nutrients against each other.
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“Don’t feel you have to choose between carbohydrates or protein - a bit of both is better for your long term heart health. Eating a mixture of all food groups, rather than cutting anything out completely, will help you to stay healthy inside and out.
“Try and include lean proteins and low fat dairy, wholegrain and high fibre carbohydrates, along with lots of fruit and veg and small amounts of healthy fats in your diet.
"Enjoying all of these in a balanced way is far better for both your heart and your waistline than trying to stick to a strict diet.”
