FDA Updates Definition of 'Healthy' Food: Eggs Now Qualify Due to Nutrient Density and Health Benefits
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The FDA recently updated its definition of "healthy" food labels for the first time in 30 years, and as part of this update, eggs now qualify as a healthy food. This decision is based on several key factors:
Nutrient Density: Eggs are rich in essential nutrients. They provide high-quality protein, vitamin D, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining overall health, supporting bone health, and boosting the immune system.
Low Cost: Eggs are an economical source of high-quality protein and other nutrients. This makes them an accessible option for a wide range of consumers, contributing to better overall nutrition, especially for those on a budget.
Balanced Nutrient Profile: The new FDA definition of "healthy" considers the balance of nutrients in food. Eggs meet these criteria because they contain beneficial nutrients while having a moderate amount of fat and cholesterol. This balance is important for heart health and overall dietary quality.
Updated Guidelines: The FDA's decision reflects the latest scientific understanding of nutrition. Previous dietary guidelines had stricter limits on cholesterol intake, but recent research suggests that dietary cholesterol has less of an impact on blood cholesterol levels than once thought. This shift in understanding has led to the reevaluation of eggs in the context of a healthy diet.
In summary, the FDA's decision to classify eggs as a healthy food is grounded in their nutrient density, affordability, and the health benefits they provide, as well as the updated understanding of dietary cholesterol's impact on health.