Heated egg white has no effect, but lactic fermented and unheated egg white reduces abdominal fat in rats

Health Functions of Egg Protein

Egg protein is a remarkably abundant source of protein, with an amino acid score of 100 and the highest net protein utilization rate. However, there have been relatively fewer studies investigating the health benefits of egg protein. In this review, we have summarized the available information regarding the health benefits of egg proteins based on human studies. In particular, studies conducted on the characteristics of egg whites, as they are high in pure protein, have reported their various health functions, such as increases in muscle mass and strength enhancement, lowering of cholesterol, and visceral fat reduction. Moreover, to facilitate and encourage the use of egg white protein in future, we also discuss its health functions. These benefits were determined by developing an egg white hydrolysate and lactic-fermented egg whites, with the latter treatment simultaneously improving the egg flavor. The health benefits of the protein hydrolysates from the egg yolk (bone growth effect) and eggshell membrane (knee join pain-lowering effect) have been limited in animal studies. Therefore, the consumption of egg protein may contribute to the prevention of physical frailty and metabolic syndromes.

Nutritional Viewpoints on Eggs and Cholesterol

Although most current epidemiologic studies indicate no significant association between consuming one egg daily and blood cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk, arguments still persist with a positive association. Since the diet is one of the most influential factors for this association, we illustrate characteristic features in Japanese people whose dietary pattern is distinct from that, for example, the US (United States) population. Available epidemiologic studies in healthy Japanese people show no association between consumption of one egg daily and blood cholesterol level, consistent with those observed in the US population. However, when consumption of major nutrients and food sources of cholesterol are compared to the US population, Japanese people may have an extra-reserve against the influence of eggs on cardiovascular risk markers, despite consuming relatively more eggs. Further discussion on the influence of nutrients contained in the egg and dietary pattern, including interaction with gut microbes, is necessary. In addition, special consideration at the personalized level is needed for judgment regarding dietary cholesterol not only for hypercholesterolemic patients but for hyper-responsive healthy persons. Although randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up are required to evaluate the association between consumption of eggs and human health, available information, at least from the nutritional viewpoint, suggests that egg is a healthy and cost-efficient food worldwide.