The Federal Guidelines Advisory Board has issued new guidelines about fat consumption. The committee concluded that there is no benefit to limiting total dietary fat, but that saturated fat should be replaced with unsaturated fat. It seems that the type of fat is much more important in a person’s diet. For example, trans fat has been associated with heart disease and weight gain, and the FDA has ordered food manufacturers to stop using in within 3 years. These guidelines will likely affect the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which are due out later this year.
It is important to note that the quality of any food or nutrient you eat – not only fat – is extremely important when deciding what to consume. Choose foods that are less processed and high in nutrients and phytochemicals, and don’t eliminate healthy fats from your diet!