EFFECT OF EGG-WHITE ON SERUM-CHOLESTEROL CONCENTRATION IN YOUNG-WOMEN

In a previous study we observed favorable effects of egg white on seru m lipids in rats and mice. The present study was designed to elucidate these effects in 24 female university students with moderate hypercho lesterolemia. About 30% of total protein was supplied with egg white, tofu or cheese. The experiment was conducted for a complete menstruati on cycle of each subject. Lipid intake was about 30% of total energy i ntake. The energy intake of each subject was constant throughout the e xperiment. Body weight was measured every morning. Daily activity was measured by a pedometer. Blood was withdrawn after an overnight fast o n the first, 15th and last days and serum lipids were measured. Body w eight and daily activity were maintained in all the groups throughout the experiment. The egg white group showed a similar decrease in the t otal cholesterol (Total-C) concentration but a greater increase of hig h-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) concentration as compared to the tofu group and a greater decrease in Total-C and low-density lipo protein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations and a greater increase in t he HDL-C concentration as compared to the cheese group (p < 0.05). The results indicate the favorable effects of egg white in the control of hypercholesterolemia.