10 Dangerous Side Effects of Eating Too Many Eggs, According to Science

Eggs, widely recognized for their nutritional value, are a favorite among many. They are superfoods packed with high-quality protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients. However, like all good things, moderation is the key. Consuming too many eggs can potentially lead to certain health risks, as supported by scientific research. This piece delves into the top 10 adverse impacts of excessive egg intake.

Obesity

Weight gain is one of the most common side effects of eating too many eggs. Though it contain protein, eggs are also high in fat and calories, making them a calorie-dense food that can lead to obesity when eaten in excess. People who eat more than seven eggs a week gain more weight over time than those who consume fewer eggs.

Cholesterol Increase

Consuming excessive eggs can contribute to elevated levels of total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, increasing the likelihood of developing heart disease. This risk is particularly concerning for individuals with pre-existing high cholesterol, as consuming too many eggs can exacerbate complications.

Diabetes Risk

Eating too many eggs can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes due to the high levels of saturated fat that they contain. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by elevated blood sugar and insulin resistance, and overconsumption of saturated fats has been linked to an increased risk of developing this condition.

Boils

Boils occur when bacteria get trapped in a pocket of pus under the skin and can be very painful. Eating too many eggs can cause boils on the skin, particularly around areas where hair follicles are present. Since this risk increases with overconsumption of eggs, be aware of how much you eat.

Heart Disease

Since eggs are high in dietary cholesterol, overconsumption can increase your risk of developing heart disease. Eating too many eggs can raise levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, one of the major contributors to blockages in the coronary arteries.

Cravings for Unhealthy Food

Consuming too many eggs can lead to cravings for unhealthy foods due to their high fat and cholesterol content. These cravings, in turn, result in long-term weight gain and nutrient deficiencies if not balanced with various nutrient-rich foods. Be mindful of your egg consumption and prioritize including healthy alternatives to promote overall well-being.

Cancer Risk

Consuming excessive eggs has been associated with an increased risk of specific types of cancer, notably pancreatic and prostate cancer. This correlation is attributed to both cholesterol and saturated fat in eggs. Maintain a balanced diet to reduce potential health risks associated with consuming eggs.

Fatty-Liver Disease

Eggs contain high levels of saturated fat, which can lead to fatty liver disease if consumed excessively. This condition is characterized by a buildup of excess fat in the liver that can damage the organ’s function and potentially lead to severe health complications.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Eating too many eggs can cause digestive distress, including nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. There is also a greater risk of food poisoning due to the increased likelihood of consuming raw eggs or undercooked dishes that contain them (like scrambled eggs).

Allergic Reactions

Egg allergies can affect both adults and children, with symptoms varying in severity. In certain instances, allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition requiring prompt medical intervention. Common indications of egg allergy comprise hives, itching, and swelling around the eyes or lips.