Are Eggs Good For Cancer Patients?

Eggs have received a lot of media attention over the years - especially when it comes to heart health and cholesterol. For decades, it was recommended that people limit their egg intake because eggs contain dietary cholesterol. It seemed logical at the time: more cholesterol in your food must mean more cholesterol in your blood.

But research has since moved on. We now know that it’s saturated fat - found in foods like pies, pastries, butter, and fatty cuts of meat - that tends to have a bigger effect on blood cholesterol than the cholesterol in eggs themselves. In general, eggs are considered fine to eat in moderation as part of a healthy and varied diet.

What Counts as Moderate?

There’s no specific UK guideline on egg intake, but international guidance often suggests that up to 7 eggs per week is considered fine for most people. If you enjoy eggs and they work well for you, they can be a helpful and nourishing part of a varied diet.

As always, there’s no one–size–fits–all answer. It depends on your overall intake, preferences, and nutritional needs. For example, if you’re vegetarian, you might lean on eggs a little more to help meet your protein needs. If you eat meat or fish regularly, you may find you eat them less often. The key is variety, so that you’re getting a wide mix of nutrients from different foods across the week.

What about Eggs and Cancer Risk

Beyond heart health, questions about whether eggs are safe to eat from a cancer perspective come up in my client sessions and workshops too.

Overall, research looking at egg consumption and cancer risk hasn’t shown strong cause for concern when it comes to moderate intake. World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute for Cancer Research include eggs as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

One U.S. study from 2011 gained attention for suggesting a possible link between eggs and fatal prostate cancer. It reported that men who ate 2.5 or more eggs per week had a higher risk compared to those who ate fewer than half an egg. Understandably, this study still resurfaces from time to time.

But there are some important caveats:

• It was an observational study, which means it couldn’t prove cause and effect.

• The number of prostate cancer deaths in the study was small - and when numbers are small, it’s harder to know whether findings are meaningful or down to chance.

• The men who ate more eggs also tended to have other habits that may increase cancer risk - such as smoking more and exercising less - which could have influenced the results.

• Larger, more recent studies have not found the same link.

The general consensus now is that moderate egg consumption does not significantly raise the risk of prostate cancer.

Nutrition research is always evolving, and single studies - especially those highlighted in the media - can sometimes feel confusing or even alarming. That’s why it’s so important to look at the overall body of evidence, not just one paper or headline.

What if You Have Prostate Cancer or Are Recovering from It?

If this is you - or someone you care about - it’s completely understandable to feel a bit cautious when it comes to food choices.

The strongest evidence doesn’t point to one single “anti-cancer” food or any specific foods you must avoid entirely. Instead, it supports a healthy overall pattern. Think Mediterranean-style: rich in colourful vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, legumes, healthy fats like avocado and extra virgin olive oil, and enough protein to support muscle mass and strength.

There’s no need to avoid eggs entirely, and that reflects the wider messaging too. Organisations like Prostate Cancer UK take a similar view, supporting the idea that eggs can be part of a wholesome dietary pattern. Keeping physically active, where possible, can also be an important part of long-term health.

If you are living with, or recovering from, prostate cancer and would like support to feel more confident about your food choices, I’d be happy to help you work out what’s right for you.

Are Eggs Good to Eat During Cancer Treatment?

Getting enough protein during cancer treatment is important - it helps with healing and repair, and supports strength and muscle mass. Eggs can be a useful part of that picture:

• Eggs are nutrient-dense, providing high-quality protein (around 6g protein per medium egg) along with key nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and selenium.

• They’re one of the few natural food sources of vitamin D, which supports immunity, muscle strength, and bone health.

• They’re quick and versatile, which can be a real help on days when you’re feeling tired. A simple omelette or scrambled egg on toast with avocado can be ready in minutes.

• They’re protein-rich, which can help keep blood sugar levels steady - something that may support energy levels and reduce fatigue. (According to Macmillan Cancer Support, as many as 90% of people with cancer experience cancer-related fatigue.)

If your appetite is low, or you’re losing weight, smaller snack-style meals might feel more manageable. Here are a few ideas:

• Egg muffins (which you can batch-make and keep in the fridge)

• A boiled egg with baby spinach

• Avocado egg boats

• A small egg sandwich (I like using yoghurt instead of mayonnaise for extra nourishment)

You can also add eggs to other meals to boost the protein and energy content - for example, a beaten egg added to soup or porridge at the end of cooking, or a poached egg on top of savoury dishes.

Can Eggs be Part of a Cancer-Protective Diet?

Yes - eggs can absolutely be part of a healthy, balanced diet to support your health beyond cancer.

One of the most important things you can do is focus on an overall eating pattern that includes plenty of colourful, plant-based foods. Vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, legumes, nuts, and seeds are rich in natural compounds called phytochemicals, as well as other key nutrients. These all work together to support your immune system, reduce inflammation, and protect your health. Scrambled eggs or omelettes are a great base - you can add almost any veg you have in the fridge, and herbs like chives, parsley, or dill add an easy flavour boost.

Maintaining a healthy body weight is another important pillar of cancer prevention. Eggs can be a helpful part of that too - for example, having eggs for breakfast may support appetite regulation and make you feel fuller for longer.

As always, how foods are cooked and what they’re paired with matters. Eggs served with vegetables, wholegrains, and healthy fats can be a nourishing choice. For example, poached eggs with tomatoes, mushrooms, avocado, and rye toast is a more balanced option than eggs fried in lots of oil or served alongside processed meats like bacon and heavily buttered white toast. The difference is in the whole plate, not just the egg.

Extra Tips

If you can't eat eggs, or prefer not to, there are still plenty of nourishing options. Scrambled tofu can be a lovely alternative, and these vegan egg muffins are a great option if you're looking for something you can batch cook or enjoy on the go.

You can also use these ingredients as egg replacements in cooking and baking, depending on the recipe:

• Unsweetened apple sauce

• Mashed banana or avocado

• Silken tofu

• Ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water

• Plain yoghurt or buttermilk

• Carbonated water

• Nut butter

So, Are Eggs a Good Choice?

For most people, including those living with or recovering from cancer, the answer is yes. Eggs can be a nourishing, versatile, and practical part of a balanced diet. They're rich in high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

For those undergoing cancer treatment, eggs can be particularly useful - helping to meet protein needs for healing and maintaining muscle mass. They’re also a quick and versatile meal or snack option, which can make a real difference on low-energy days.

While past concerns about cholesterol led to confusion, the wider body of evidence now supports moderate egg consumption as part of a healthy dietary pattern. As always, the bigger picture matters most - variety, balance, and eating in a way that works for you.

If you’re feeling unsure about food choices right now, or want to check what’s right for your situation, I’d be glad to support you. We can work through it together and find an approach that feels manageable and supportive.

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The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered personalised nutrition, dietetic, or medical advice. Please consult your healthcare team for personalised advice and guidance regarding your specific medical condition or dietary needs.