Egg intake and diabetes mellitus type 2: A review of the scientific literature

Eggs are a highly nutritious food with potential health benefits. However, because of its high cholesterol content, physicians have recommended consumption restrictions in the general population. The aim of this review is to update the scientific community on the latest research about the impact of egg consumption in subjects with diabetes mellitus. Although several observational studies show that an intake of one egg a day does not increase cardiovascular risk in the general population, however risk may increase among diabetics. Additionally, some prospective cohorts have associated associated higher egg intake with an increased diabetes incidence in the general population. On the other hand, short-term intervention studies have not shown any adverse outcome in terms of cardiovascular risk or glycemic control with egg intake. Moreover, there are studies that suggest a beneficial effect of egg consumption in weight reduction, an important therapeutic tool in diabetes management.