Is Mayonnaise good for heart health?

Dr Madan Mohan B

Mayonnaise is a popular condiment that is made of a mixture of eggs, vinegar and oil and is loved by many people in different ways, such as being used as a sandwich spread, added to salads, sord as a dip for fried or grilled foods. Despite its sweet, tangy taste, it is crucial to evaluate the possible health consequences that may come with consuming mayonnaise regularly, including how it impacts the heart.

There is an increasing consciousness in modern society about the implications of regular consumption of mayonnaise for general welfare. Besides being concerned about mayonnaise having high calories that can lead to a rise in glucose levels and high cholesterol levels, among other health-related issues, there are also concerns about its impact on heart health because of its richness in omega-6 fatty acids. This is because if the mayonnaise gets contaminated, it can result in food poisoning since this food supports the growth of dangerous bacteria. Furthermore, taking too much mayo has been known to cause high sugar levels in the blood, which increases the chances of developing diabetes.

Mayo, a favorite among both young and old, has unsaturated fats that are good for the heart if taken modestly. However, one must pay attention to the kind and amount of fat included in mayo recipes because having too much saturated and trans fat may lead to increased LDL cholesterol levels in the body, causing high cholesterol levels and cardiovascular diseases.

Even besides being potentially involved in food-borne illnesses, mayo also plays a role in heart health, which is highlighted by its association with weight gain. This means that when you eat too much of it, your body will produce more LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which can get stuck inside blood vessels, thereby making you vulnerable to various forms of heart disease.

Whereas awareness campaigns mostly emphasise the relationship between alcoholism, smoking, and cancer, it’s worth noting that consuming regular mayonnaise can lead to heart problems as well. The impact on cholesterol levels and the ability to quickly add extra pounds emphasize moderation while eating it.

Like any other dietary consideration, moderation should be exercised. Eating a reasonable quantity of mayonnaise as part of a healthy diet is not likely to be bad for your heart. However, it is necessary to be watchful, particularly when combining mayonnaise with unhealthy foods. People who are focused on their heart health have different options, like Greek yogurt, spreads made from avocado, and mayonnaise made from olive oil.

Significantly, reduced mayonnaise emerges as a health-conscious choice, especially for individuals who are on low-calorie or low-fat diets. Alongside this choice is the commitment to live in a balanced manner, which helps mitigate the risks associated with coronary diseases.

In conclusion, instead of condemning mayonnaise, one should adopt an integrated approach toward heart health that takes into account one’s overall lifestyle and diet. A comprehensive strategy that incorporates intelligent food choices, regular exercise, and overall well-being will ensure a healthy diet.

Dr Madan Mohan B, Senior Consultant, Interventional Cardiologist, MGM Healthcare