Eating eggs regularly for breakfast may be associated with better weight control and lower body fat, according to a study conducted in Spain.
The research, published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, found that people who ate eggs on at least five days a week tended to have lower body weight and body-fat levels than those who ate them less frequently. The findings suggest that the protein content of eggs may play a role in helping maintain a healthy body weight.
Study examines egg consumption and body weight
The study included 355 participants between the ages of 18 and 30. Researchers assessed their dietary habits and examined how frequently they consumed eggs in relation to measures of body weight and fat.
Participants who regularly ate eggs were found to have lower body weight and less body fat compared with those who consumed eggs less often.
The researchers also reported that participants who did not regularly eat eggs were more likely to have greater waist and abdominal measurements.
Protein may play a role
Researchers suggested that the relatively high protein content of eggs could help with weight management. Protein can contribute to feelings of fullness and is an important part of a balanced diet.
However, the researchers noted that the study was observational. This means the findings show an association between egg consumption and weight-related measures but do not establish that eating eggs directly causes weight loss or prevents weight gain.
Further research will be needed to confirm the findings and determine how egg consumption may affect body weight over time.