Embarking on a diet requires prioritizing health with evidence-based guidelines. While many turn to low-fat diets for quick weight loss, a landmark study warns of serious risks. Published in the prestigious The Lancet, research on 135,000 adults across 18 countries reveals that very low-fat intake heightens premature death risk compared to diets including fats from butter, cheese, and meats. Covered by The Independent, the findings highlight how dieters often swap fats for carb-heavy foods like bread, pasta, and rice, missing essential nutrients.
Conducted in Canada and presented at the European Society of Cardiology in Barcelona, this rigorous analysis shows high-carb diets pose significant harm. Key data: low saturated fat intake raises premature death risk by 13%, while total fat consumption lowers it by 23%. Dr. Andrew Mente, an expert at McMaster University in Ontario, recommends that about 35% of daily calories come from fats for optimal health. He urges easing restrictions on total and saturated fats while curbing carbs. Co-author Dr. Mahshid Dehghan notes that exceeding 60% carbs from calories amplifies risks. The UK's NHS advises 30g daily saturated fat for men and 20g for women—balance is key, as excess can elevate cholesterol and heart disease risk.
