For the past few years the word “fat” was our dietary enemy. We have avoided butter, oil, full cream dairies and even avocados because of the firm belief that fats will make us fat. It is true that fats contain twice the amount of calories per gram compared to carbohydrates and protein. Considering that information, it is justifiable to eat low fat because it has fewer calories and therefore it will help with weight loss, right? Studies have proved this conclusion to be false because of the following findings:
- Low fat foods usually contain more carbohydrates in the form of sugar to compensate for the lack of taste in the food.
- Although fats do have more calories per gram than carbohydrates, we should not be eliminating fats or reducing fats to control our weight. Instead, think about how satisfying your diet is. Low fat foods remove the fats and the satiating properties of food, which results in a less desirable taste so foods are then filled with sugar to compensate. This can often lead to overeating, especially foods that are high in sugar or carbs.
- When we eat refined carbohydrates, it causes swings in blood glucose and insulin levels that lead to hunger in between meals. Whereas if we have a diet that’s somewhat higher in fat, we tend to be more satisfied over the long run.
According to a Harvard study; “making good dietary choices is what matters including choosing the type of fat to eat. Also keeping in mind that too many calories from both fats and carbohydrates will lead to weight gain, which will increase risks of breast cancer, colon cancer, and heart disease.”
What are your thoughts on low fat vs. full fat? Let us know in the comments below!
