An egg a day may just keep memory issues away. A new study published in June 2026 concluded that eating eggs may be linked to a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in adults aged 65 and older. According to research from California's Loma Linda University, regular egg consumption can decrease Alzheimer's risk by up to 27% in older adults.

When it comes to sources of protein, eggs are often a top recommendation by nutrition experts, with recent research highlighting their benefits for heart health, antioxidants, and more. In fact, in healthy adults, eating seven eggs a week — or one egg a day — comes highly recommended by many health professionals.

The link between eggs and Alzheimer's risk

This specific study examined how diet impacts Alzheimer's disease. Because it's established that eggs are linked to brain health, researchers looked at how various rates of egg consumption affected 39,498 adults over 15 years or longer, and whether they developed Alzheimer's during that period.

Findings showed that moderate egg consumption — around five eggs per week — was linked to the lowest rate of Alzheimer's disease. All preparation methods counted: scrambled, fried, boiled, as well as eggs used in baked goods or other dishes.

"In this health-conscious population, moderate egg consumption was associated with a significantly lower risk of Alzheimer's disease," the study concludes. "These findings suggest a potential neuroprotective benefit of nutrients found in eggs when consumed as part of a balanced diet."

What makes eggs beneficial for brain health?

"What stands out to me about this study is that eggs may offer more than convenience and protein, especially when we think about healthy aging," says Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, FAND.

"The yolk is where many of the brain-supportive nutrients live, including choline, which helps the body make acetylcholine — a neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning."

Eggs also provide:

• Lutein and zeaxanthin — often discussed for eye health, but these nutrients may also play a role in brain health by supporting the body's defence against oxidative stress, a process involved in cognitive aging

• High-quality protein — supports muscle maintenance, metabolism, and satiety

• Vitamin B12, selenium, and iodine — essential for immune health and overall wellbeing

What this means for your diet

"This study does not prove that eggs prevent Alzheimer's, but it does suggest they may be one helpful part of a brain-supportive eating pattern," Sheth says. "Alzheimer's risk is complex, and no single food works in isolation."

For many people, especially older adults, eggs can be an easy, affordable way to make meals more nourishing and satisfying. Daily egg consumption can also help cut out some red meat in a meal, which is beneficial for heart health.

Key takeaway

The bottom line: Adding eggs to your regular diet — around five per week — may be one practical, affordable step toward supporting brain health as you age. While no single food prevents Alzheimer's, eggs offer a nutrient-dense package that fits well within a balanced, brain-friendly eating pattern.