The Truth About Fried Eggs: How Overcooking Can Affect Your Health

Many of us start the morning with a fried egg or omelet, but not everyone is aware that over-frying can lead to the release of harmful compounds. In fact, overheating eggs may produce substances that can be detrimental to your health.

For years, eggs were believed to be harmful to heart health due to their cholesterol content. However, according to the American Heart Association, dietary cholesterol- like that found in eggs- does not directly raise blood cholesterol levels. That said, the method of cooking still matters: when cholesterol is overheated, it can turn into compounds that may harm the body.

According to dietitian Angel Lok, overheating eggs can lead to the formation of compounds that increase the risk of heart disease and even cancer. A 2022 study found that certain processes during cooking and storage can trigger the creation of these compounds, which in some cases may worsen inflammation and lead to plaque buildup in the arteries.

Lok recommends using stable oils like avocado oil, and frying eggs over medium-low heat to avoid overheating. Additionally, making a vegetable omelet with minimal oil helps preserve the eggs' nutritional value.

Keep in mind that avoiding overheating applies not only to eggs but also to other foods like processed meats and cheeses, which can develop harmful elements when exposed to excessive heat.