Eating seven of more eggs a week can significantly increase the risk of death in men, say researchers from Harvard University.
In this new study, more than 20,000 middle-aged men with or without diabetes reported on their health and lifestyle habits for over 20 years.
Men with diabetes who ate any eggs at all were twice as likely to die from any cause during the study period when compared to their peers who didn't eat eggs.
Men without diabetes could eat up to six eggs a week without any increase in the risk of death from any cause - but eating seven or more eggs a week was associated with a 23 percent increase in the risk of death.
The researchers didn't look at why eggs might affect risk of death although men who ate the most eggs were also older, heavier and more likely to drink alcohol, smoke and led inactive lifestyles - all factors that contribute to earlier death.
There was no evidence that linked eating eggs to increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Health experts say it's important to remember that there are no "bad" foods. Eggs are a good source of protein and other nutrients and can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet. In fact, the Canadian Diabetes Association includes eggs as a possible protein choice in their plan for healthy eating.
This study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Future research will look at the effect of eggs on risk of death in the general population.
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