Who knew “the incredible edible egg” could create so much confusion? On one hand, eggs are known as a good protein source, while on the other, their high cholesterol content scares others away.

According to the American Egg Board’s Web site, “studies have now shown that many people on a lowfat diet can eat one or two eggs a day without measurable changes in their blood cholesterol levels.”

Judy Trumpy, registered dietitian and program coordinator for ISU Dining, suggested viewing eggs as a good protein source instead of cutting them out because of their cholesterol content.

Trumpy said eggs are a healthy source of calcium and Vitamins A, D and E.

“Cholesterol is needed for cell structure development and structure of hormones,” Trumpy said. “The cholesterol in food does not necessarily raise the cholesterol in the blood if you don’t have high cholesterol.”

Brady Boyle, senior in animal science, enjoys a breakfast of three to four fried eggs on the weekends.

“Right now, at this point in my life, I don’t have to worry about cholesterol,” Boyle said. “I’m more concerned with the price of eggs.”

However, the high cholesterol of eggs can sometimes cause people to pass up a breakfast of eggs.

Trumpy said cholesterol can be used “as a marker in blood to indicate if a person is at high risk for stroke or heart disease.”

Egg Beaters, an artificial egg substitute, can provide an alternative to eggs. Egg Beaters differ from eggs in that they do not contain any cholesterol or fat, which comes from the yolk in a regular egg.

“Eggs whites are considered a very lean meat,” Trumpy said.

If you are concerned with cholesterol but don’t care for Egg Beaters, Trumpy suggested that, when cooking two eggs, removing the yolk from one to cut down on cholesterol.

Trumpy said the American Heart Association recommends an individual eat four eggs a week. Ultimately, eating a balanced diet is important.

“Watching fat you eat is healthier than eliminating fat totally,” she said.

Although cholesterol can be affected by genetics – if high cholesterol runs in your family – and by your diet, cholesterol levels vary individually.

“It’s totally up to a person’s total discretion,” Trumpy said.

Eggs vs. Egg Beaters:

A large egg contains 6 grams

of protein:

Egg white protein content: 3.6 grams

Egg yolk protein content: 2.7 grams

Information from www.enc-online.org

Egg Beaters

6 grams of protein per cup serving

Contains Calcium, vitamin A and iron

Information from www.conagrafoods.com