New study shows saturated fat may not be so bad for you after all
March 20 2014
If you want to eat a healthy diet, avoid red meat, cheese and butter. That’s how the conventional wisdom has been dispensed for the last several decades after a few studies showed a connection between saturated fats and elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein, or “bad” cholesterol.
A new study raises questions about current guidelines which generally restrict the consumption of saturated fats and encourage consumption of polyunsaturated fats to prevent heart disease. The research was published in the March 18th issue of Annals of Internal Medicine.
An international research collaboration led by the University of Cambridge analyzed existing cohort studies and randomized trials on coronary risk and fatty acid intake. They showed that current evidence does not support guidelines which restrict the consumption of saturated fats in order to prevent heart disease. The researchers also found insufficient support for guidelines which advocate the high consumption of polyunsaturated fats (such as omega 3 and omega 6) to reduce the risk of coronary disease.
While the Canadian Heart and Stroke foundation and the American Heart Association have yet to weigh in on the subject, this study could lead to new guidelines being brought forward. A shifting view on the health profile of saturated fats isn’t a license to eat a T-bone drenched in butter every night. But the evidence supports the idea that beef and other animal fats can be part of a nutritious diet when used in moderation. At MealEasy, we’ve always stressed that mindful eating and consuming a variety of homemade, non –processed foods is the key to a healthier you. Consuming saturated fats IN MODERATION has always been MealEasy’s way of thinking.
