Could eating more eggs protect your brain? Study finds surprising connection to Alzheimer’s risk

A new study suggests that eating eggs regularly may be linked to a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease among older adults.

Researchers found that people who consumed eggs at least five times a week had a 27% lower risk of Alzheimer’s compared with those who rarely ate them. 

However, experts emphasize that the findings show an association rather than proving that eggs directly prevent the disease.

The research analyzed health data from more than 39,000 adults aged 65 and older who participated in the Adventist Health Study-2, a long-term study tracking participants’ health habits for more than two decades.

Over an average follow-up period of 15 years, researchers compared participants’ egg consumption habits with Alzheimer’s diagnoses. 

The results showed that even occasional egg consumption was associated with a reduced risk.

Those who ate eggs one to three times per month had a 17% lower Alzheimer’s risk, while people who consumed eggs two to four times per week saw a 20% reduction. 

The strongest association was found among those eating eggs five or more times weekly, with a 27% lower risk.

Researchers believe eggs may support brain health because they contain several nutrients linked to cognitive function.

One key nutrient is choline, which plays an important role in producing acetylcholine, a chemical involved in memory, learning and attention. 

Eggs are also rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which may help protect brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Despite the findings, experts warn that eating eggs alone is unlikely to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Because the study was observational, researchers cannot confirm that eggs directly caused the lower risk. Other lifestyle factors, including exercise, overall diet, social connections and sleep habits, may also influence brain health.

Dietitians note that eggs may be one part of a broader brain-supporting eating pattern. 

Diets such as the Mediterranean, MIND and DASH diets, which emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats, have also been linked to healthier aging and reduced cognitive decline.

Researchers say maintaining brain health involves multiple daily habits working together, and diet is just one piece of the puzzle.