Egg consumption and bone mass density among the elderly: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nutrition Science
• Bone Health Research

Background:

• Aging is associated with a natural decline in bone mass density, increasing fracture risk.
• Maintaining skeletal health is vital for mobility and quality of life in older adults.
• Dietary recommendations for aging populations require comprehensive evaluation of nutrient sources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and map the existing literature on habitual egg consumption and bone mass density in older adults.
• To address the limited research and conflicting reports regarding egg consumption safety and efficacy in this demographic.
• To clarify the association between egg intake and skeletal health in the context of aging.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology was employed, adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines.
• A comprehensive search was conducted across five electronic databases for relevant published literature.
• The review synthesized evidence on the relationship between egg consumption patterns and bone mass density outcomes in older individuals.

Main Results:

• While some studies link high egg intake to negative health outcomes like increased mortality and dyslipidemia, eggs possess bone-supportive compounds (e.g., Ovo transferrin, carotenoids).
• Existing literature presents a complex and often conflicting view on egg consumption's impact on health, particularly concerning cholesterol.
• Evidence specifically linking habitual egg consumption to bone mass density in older adults remains limited and requires further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Eggs may offer potential benefits for bone health in aging populations due to their nutrient profile.
• Concerns regarding cholesterol in eggs have potentially overshadowed their possible skeletal advantages.
• Further research is crucial to establish definitive dietary guidelines on egg consumption for promoting bone health and preventing fractures in older adults.