How Low Can You Go?
Dateline: 09/10/98
There have been many debates about fat intake as a percentage of total calories in a person's diet. Some say that we should limit our intake to 30% of total calories; others say that we should limit our intake to 15%; and still others say that we should limit our intake even further. In an effort to clarify the research findings surrounding this dilemma, the American Heart Association (AHA) has released a statement about the benefits/risks of low fat intake.
According to the AHA, there simply is not enough data available to "heartily" recommend a very low fat diet as a means of preventing heart disease. As a matter of fact, very low fat diets (lower than 10%) have been found to raise triglyceride levels and lower the good or HDL cholesterol without lowering the bad or LDL cholesterol levels to the same extent. These increased triglycerides are also associated with depressed HDL cholesterol levels. In certain segments of the population, these levels have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
While low fat diets have also been associated with a lowered risk of heart disease, a direct correlation has not been established. Since many dieters also combine very low fat diets with the high consumption of fruits and vegetables and exercise, it is difficult to determine the singular effects of the low fat diet. There could be synergistic effects among these "parts," but scientists are unsure of the exact nature of such effects.
Scientists caution that people on very low fat diets should not use the fat level present in a food item as the only nutritional requirement. Salt and sugar content should be considered as well. Low fat dieters should also be sure to obtain sufficient levels of various minerals and nutrients.
Generally it is not a good idea for children and the elderly to be on such diets unless instructed by a physician. Likewise, pregnant women and people with medical conditions that may be affected by a low fat diet should also consult their physicians.
Currently, the AHA recommends that individuals consume no more than 30% of total calories in fat and no more than 300 milligrams of cholesterol per day. Sodium intake should be restricted to 2,400 milligrams per day.
What do you think? What percentage of fat calories do you consume? What do you think are the relative risks/rewards of that level of intake? Come over to the Biology Forum and share your thoughts, opinions, and feelings. 'Til next time...
For additional information see:
- How low (fat) should you go to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease?
News release from the American Heart Association.
