07 May 2026
A major longitudinal study conducted by researchers at Loma Linda University has revealed a compelling association between regular egg consumption and a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The findings suggest that including eggs as part of a balanced diet may provide neuroprotective benefits, potentially reducing the risk of this debilitating condition by as much as 27%.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein plaques in the brain, leading to cognitive decline and loss of independence. Although previous research has suggested that nutrients found in eggs may support cognitive health, establishing a long-term association has remained challenging.
To address this, the Loma Linda research team analyzed data from approximately 40,000 participants known for maintaining health-conscious lifestyles. By cross-referencing detailed dietary questionnaires with U.S. Medicare records over an average follow-up period of 15.3 years, the researchers identified a clear inverse association between egg consumption and Alzheimer’s diagnoses.
The study demonstrated that even modest egg consumption was associated with a lower risk profile, with a dose-response relationship observed in which higher consumption frequencies corresponded to greater reductions in risk.
Participants who consumed eggs 1–3 times per month had a 17% lower risk, those consuming eggs 2–4 times per week had a 20% lower risk, and those consuming eggs five or more times per week exhibited a 27% lower risk.
Perhaps most notably, complete avoidance of eggs was associated with increased risk. Statistical analysis showed that participants who consumed no eggs had a 22% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared with those who consumed approximately one egg per week (around 10 grams per day).
This study adds to a growing body of evidence indicating that moderate egg consumption does not adversely affect cardiovascular health and may instead provide essential nutrients that support nervous system health.
Oh, J., Oda, K., Chiriac, G., Fraser, G. E., Sirirat, R., & Sabaté, J. (2026). Egg Intake and the Incidence of Alzheimer's Disease in the Adventist Health Study-2 Cohort Linked with Medicare Data. The Journal of Nutrition, 101541
