Dear doctor;

I can’t stop eating mayonnaise. For the last two years, almost every meal I eat must have mayonnaise. Are there side effects I risk due to over consumption of this ingredient? Seraphine, 23.

Dear Seraphine,

Mayoinnase is a stable emulsion of egg yolk, oil and either vinegar or lemon juice. The commercial processing makes the eggs free from germs. Salt, and vinegar or lemon juice prevents growth of bacteria. It also contains vitamin E, which is useful for heart and to prevent menopausal symptoms. But it is not a healthy choice to eat on a daily basis. Eggs are very high in cholesterol and taken daily increase risk of cardiac problems. Oil constitutes about 40 per cent of the contents of mayonnaise. This tends to make one obese, particularly if the person lacks physical exercise. The extra oil tends to stretch the stomach, causing one to have more appetite and eat more, thus adding to obesity. This central obesity makes one more susceptible to diabetes, high blood pressure and heart problems. Salt and vinegar weaken bones and hasten osteoporosis particularly in women. Considering various health hazards, it is not a good choice to eat daily.