Egg consumption and late-life depression - a review of the evidence

Prof Julie Pasco, Chair, Epidemiology of Musculoskeletal and Metabolic Disorders, at Deakin University in the School of Medicine, led a project comprising a systematic review and data-derived investigation of the association between egg consumption and depression in older adults. 

Depression is a common mental health condition and remains a leading cause of disease burden. Growing evidence points to a role of diet in depression and depressive symptoms. Eggs are a “complete” protein source with properties that are beneficial for health. However, the association between egg consumption and risk of depression in later life has not been thoroughly investigated.

The results from this project will prompt further research to better understand if eggs should be considered in dietary guidelines for promoting both mental and physical health.