No association between consumption of eggs with energy or macronutrient intake: Objective evidence from the remote food photography method

Abstract

Background and aimsGreater egg consumption is associated with poor glycemic control. However, greater egg intake could simply be a marker for other dietary indiscretions such as greater intake of energy or saturated fat, which may influence glycemic control. We examined the association between egg consumption and total energy intake and saturated fat intake, measured using the remote food photography method. MethodsAn observational study was conducted with 48 healthy adults consuming ≥1 eggs/week. Photographs of all meals consumed for seven days were captured via a smartphone application called SmartIntake® and analyzed for nutrient intake. Fasting blood samples were collected. Linear correlations between egg consumption and nutrient intake or measures of glycemic control were determined. ResultsDaily egg intake was significantly associated with cholesterol intake, but not with the daily energy and saturated fat intake or measures of glycemic control. ConclusionsHigher consumption of eggs in free-living conditions was not associated with undesirable profiles of macronutrient intake, total EI, or an impaired glycemic profile in this study population. Thus, the assertion that eggs are linked with impaired glycemic control because of the accompanying intake of greater energy and saturated fat, does not appear valid. Trial registrationNCT 03404700.