For decades, we were told to choose low-fat dairy. New research says otherwise
A Canadian study found that consuming full-fat dairy does not negatively impact body weight or cholesterol levels in adults. The findings challenge long-standing dietary advice that favors low-fat dairy products.
Why it matters
This research contributes to the evolving scientific consensus on dietary fats and may influence future public health nutritional guidelines.
A new Canadian study led by University of Toronto professor Harvey Anderson adds to growing evidence that full-fat dairy can be part of a healthy diet.
In the 12-week study, 74 adults consumed different amounts of dairy under varying dietary conditions. The researchers found that eating three servings of full-fat dairy per day did not negatively affect body weight, body composition, energy metabolism, or blood lipid levels. The findings were recently published in The Journal of Nutrition .
Why Full-Fat Dairy Has Long Raised Concerns
Dairy foods contain saturated fat, which has traditionally been associated with higher cholesterol and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. As a result, dietary recommendations in Canada and many other countries have typically encouraged people to choose fat-free or low-fat dairy products as a way to reduce saturated fat intake.
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