Setting the record straight: New partnership extols the health and cost benefits of eggs for older Aussies

Supervillain or superfood? A new partnership between Australian Eggs and Hearts4Heart is working to inform Australians about the health and financial benefits of eggs especially for those who are over 75.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, in 2023 those aged 75 and above experienced a higher incidence of cardiovascular disease than any other age demographic, exposing them to increased vulnerability for associated health issues or mortality.

Eggs have long been associated with concerns about heart health and cardiovascular disease primarily due to their cholesterol content. One egg contains about 186 milligrams of cholesterol, most of which is found in the yolk. These high cholesterol levels in the blood have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

However, research published by Harvard Medical School says that eggs, as an affordable protein source, might actually help your heart, not harm it as was previously thought if consumed as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Aware of the concern around eggs and their cholesterol content, Managing Director of Australian Eggs, Rowan McMonnies said, “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.”

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

“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”

Tanya Hall, the Chief Executive Officer at Hearts4Heart, emphasised that mitigating the risk of cardiovascular disease extends beyond just adopting a nutritious diet.

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

Maintaining a healthy diet is an important pillar of health for over 60s as it plays a crucial role in maintaining and even improving overall health and well-being.

A healthy diet can help manage and prevent chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer and can also help in maintaining a healthy weight and improving energy levels.

Eating a healthy diet is particularly important for over 60s, given that as we age our nutrient needs change and our bodies’ ability to absorb and use certain nutrients decreases.

Principle Nutritionist and Director of Sydney City Nutritionist and Food Intolerance Australia, Jennifer May recently told Starts at 60 that “for people over the age of 60, nutrition is especially important for maintaining overall health.”

“Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated are key components to ensuring that seniors get all the nutrients they need in order to support optimum health,” May said.

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.