The humble egg has been vindicated after a recent study revealed that not only are eggs not associated with stroke risk, but they may even help keep blood pressure in check.

The Finnish study, performed by The University of Eastern Finland, measured both the egg and cholesterol intake of 1,950 male subjects (aged between 42 and 60) over a 21-year period.

The results confirmed that daily egg consumption is not linked to stoke and may actually protect against high blood pressure, with benefits even extending to those genetically susceptible to the effects of cholesterol.

Reasons for this may be due to the specific peptides found in egg white and phospholipids in egg yolks that help blood vessels widen, reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow.

Eggs also contain antioxidants, which help to reduce oxidative stress, further reducing blood pressure. Regulating blood pressure helps to keep the blood (and therefore oxygen and nutrients) flowing freely around the body and to the brain.

Need some inspiration on how to add eggs to your diet? Here’s 40 ways to use up those eggs in your fridge.