Brain Health: Could Eating Eggs Lower Alzheimer's Risk?

A new study titled "Egg Intake and the Incidence of Alzheimer's Disease" suggests that eating eggs may be associated with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in adults aged 65 and older. Published in June 2026 by researchers at Loma Linda University, the study found that regular egg consumption was linked to up to a 27% lower risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Eggs have long been recognized as an excellent source of high quality protein. They also provide a variety of essential nutrients, and previous research has linked them to benefits for heart health and even a lower risk of certain cancers. As a result, many nutrition experts recommend that healthy adults consume about one egg a day, or up to seven eggs a week.

So could eating eggs regularly also help protect your brain?

What the Study Found

Researchers set out to explore a question that has received relatively little attention: whether egg consumption influences the long term risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

To investigate, they followed 39,498 adults for at least 15 years, comparing their egg consumption with the incidence of Alzheimer's disease over time.

The results were striking. Participants who ate about five eggs per week had the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's compared with those who ate eggs less frequently.

For the study, all common egg preparations counted toward intake, including scrambled eggs, omelets, hard boiled eggs, and dishes containing eggs.

Why Might Eggs Benefit the Brain?

According to registered dietitian Vandana Sheth, one of the study's most interesting findings is that eggs may offer benefits beyond convenience and protein, particularly as people age.

"The yolk contains many nutrients that support brain health, including choline," Sheth explained. "Choline helps the body produce acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in memory and learning."

Choline is considered an essential nutrient, and eggs are one of the richest natural dietary sources.

More Research Is Still Needed

Although the findings are encouraging, the researchers caution against drawing firm conclusions.

"This study does not prove that eggs prevent Alzheimer's disease," Sheth emphasized. "However, it does suggest that eggs may be a valuable part of an overall eating pattern that supports brain health."

Like all observational studies, the research shows an association rather than a direct cause and effect relationship.

More Than Just Brain Health

Even aside from their possible role in supporting cognitive health, eggs remain a nutritious addition to many diets.

"For many people, especially older adults, eggs are an affordable and convenient way to make meals more nutritious and satisfying," Sheth said.

In addition to protein, eggs provide important nutrients such as vitamin B12, selenium, iodine, and choline, all of which support muscle maintenance, metabolism, immune function, and overall health as we age.