How many eggs should high-cholesterol patients eat in a day? Apollo neurologist gives the safe number

Can you eat eggs if you have high cholesterol? An Apollo neurologist says yes — and explains the safest quantity, cooking methods, and pairings (Image: Pexels)

Eggs are excellent sources of protein and part of many people’s breakfast routine for that extra boost of energy. Besides protein, they are rich in healthy fats, minerals such as selenium, folate, iron, and choline, as well as vitamins like B12, A, D, E, and K. They also contain antioxidants that are beneficial to the body.

Apollo neurologist shares how eggs should be eaten by high-cholesterol patients, from ideal quantity to what to pair them with

While they provide multiple health benefits, they are largely feared for their high cholesterol content. However, Apollo neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar, in a post on X, called them ‘healthy,’ busting the myth that they are unsuitable for patients with high cholesterol.

This came in response to a question he was asked on X by a user who wrote, “If someone has high cholesterol, can they consume eggs? Maybe not.” Dr Kumar’s response wasn’t a short one, but a detailed one, where he broke down how eggs should be consumed by those with high cholesterol, including their ideal quantity and pairings.

Also Read: Health benefits of eggs: 10 things to know about this superfood for weight loss, heart health, more

For a typical person with high cholesterol, here’s what he suggested:

Number of eggs: Up to 1 egg per day is generally safe for those with high cholesterol.

Best ways to consume: He advised consuming them boiled, poached or in the form of an omelette but minimal oil.

Pair with high-fibre foods: Pairing them with high-fibre foods such as oats, salad, and vegetables reduces cholesterol absorption. Additionally, it adds more nutrients to your plate.

❓Can people with high cholesterol consume eggs?

✅Yes. Most people with high cholesterol can consume eggs, ▶️For a typical person with high cholesterol: 1. Up to 1 egg per day is generally safe 2. Prefer boiled, poached, or omelette with minimal oil 3. Pair with high-fiber… https://t.co/yqiEOA0dgA — Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (@hyderabaddoctor) December 1, 2025

What to avoid pairing it with: Avoid pairing with butter, cheese, or deep-frying, which increase LDL far more than the egg itself.

The neurologist also left a word of caution for people with certain conditions who may need stricter limits:

• Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH)
• Very high LDL (>190 mg/dL)
• Established cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes + high LDL, in some cases (especially if LDL is uncontrolled)

Also Read: How to lower cholesterol naturally: Cardiologist shares proven heart healthy lifestyle 

For these groups, he recommended limiting to 3 eggs per week, unless the treating doctor/nutritionist advises otherwise.

FAQs on How to Eat Eggs with High Cholesterol:

Up to 1 egg per day is generally safe.

Boiled, poached, or in the form of an omelette with minimal oil.

Pair with high-fibre foods such as oats, salad, and vegetables.

Avoid butter, cheese, or deep-frying as these increase LDL cholesterol.

Yes, conditions like Familial Hypercholesterolemia, very high LDL (>190 mg/dL), established cardiovascular disease, or Diabetes with uncontrolled LDL may require stricter limits. Consult your doctor/nutritionist for guidance.