Eggs, eggs and more eggs: health benefits for older Australians

Key points

• A new partnership between Australian Eggs and Hearts4Heart has been recently established
• Australians over the age of 75 are more likely to be affected by cardiovascular disease than other age groups
• Eggs are an affordable and healthy way to incorporate protein into your diet

A new partnership between Australian Eggs and Hearts4Heart, both not-for-profit organisations, aims to educate Australians about the health benefits of eggs on their hearts and cardiovascular systems.

Australians over the age of 75 were the group most affected by the burden of cardiovascular disease in 2023, which means that they were more likely to have a related reduced quality of life or death. Twenty-five percent of Australians died as a result of cardiovascular disease in 2021.

Previously, there have been misconceptions that having too many eggs could be detrimental to heart health, however, research now suggests that while eggs contain cholesterol, eating them as part of a balanced diet does not increase the risk of heart-related diseases for most people.

Managing Director of Australian Eggs, Rowan McMonnies, is aware that Australians may be sceptical about the benefits of eggs due to previous information about the cholesterol present in eggs.

“We know there has been misinformation surrounding egg consumption and heart health in the past. This partnership continues our efforts in sharing the positive contribution of eggs as

one of nature’s superfoods,” said McMonnies.

With rising costs, getting the best value for your money when buying protein is important to many Australians who are feeling the pinch. 

“Eggs are also an excellent and affordable source of whole protein for Australians,” said McMonnies. 

As of today, February 21, 2024, major supermarket retailers are advertising 700g packs of 12 extra large free-range eggs for under six dollars. These same supermarkets also sell a 500g packet of lean beef mince for around nine dollars, which demonstrates that eggs are a more affordable option of protein for Australians. 

While the prices of eggs are appealing, Rowan McMonnies also highlights the health benefits that may be lesser known to Australians.

“Eggs contain 13 essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that our bodies need to function. As well as this, eggs contribute to a healthy heart [and] immune system, and provide us with the energy levels we need to tackle everyday life,” said McMonnies.

While eating eggs can be healthy, monitoring what you eat with them is another factor to take into account. While bacon, cheese and butter are often eaten alongside eggs, they are high in salt, cholesterol and saturated fat, which can contribute to health conditions such as cardiovascular disease. 

However, you don’t have to eat bland eggs. Choosing healthy substitutes such as mashed avocado adds heart-healthy monosaturated fats, vitamins and fibre to your diet.

Eggs are a great way to include more healthy protein in your diet, but Tanya Hall, CEO of Hearts4Heart, makes it clear that eating healthy foods isn’t the only way to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.

“Positive lifestyle behaviours such as healthy eating, regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption and smoking cessation can lower cardiovascular risk factors,” Ms Hall said.

As with any new diet or exercise regime, seek advice from your doctor before commencing to ensure that it is the right fit for you.

How do you like to eat your eggs?

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