When is an egg not an egg?

Eggs have been a dietary staple for cultures around the world for thousands of years, and for much of that time have been considered nutritional powerhouses. They are a good source of protein, including all the essential amino acids. They are rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin A, riboflavin, and folate. They are an excellent dietary source of choline, which is an essential nutrient that plays an important role in brain health, nerve function, and metabolism. They contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants beneficial for eye health. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have a variety of important roles.1 In addition to being nutrient-dense, eggs are versatile and affordable.

Medicine’s relationship with eggs has been a complicated one in recent years, though, with concerns that they may lead to high cholesterol and inflammation. Are eggs healthy? Are they not healthy? How do we know?

The answer is—it depends on the egg, and it depends on the person. But with the right egg, they can be an excellent food.