Many researchers and scientists are finally confirming what most Naturopaths and Integrative GP's have known for quite a while now...dietary fat, whether saturated or not, is NOT THE CAUSE OF OBESITY.
The problem really lies in our consumption of refined carbohydrates such as white flour, white bread, breakfast cereals, fruit/muesli bars, crisps, sugar in all its forms (sweets, cordials, fizzy drinks, honey, etc).
A 2009 meta-analysis of 13 studies (2000-2007), found that Low carbohydrate/High protein diets were more effective for weight loss and reduced cardiovascular disease risk than low fat diets.
Besides obesity, white processed carbohydrates and sugars contribute to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The hormone INSULIN is released in response to carbohydrates - carbohydrate is driving insulin which is driving fat.
Too much insulin in the body results in INFLAMMATION in our cells. Inflammation is believed to be the common denominator in many chronic illnesses from cancer to heart disease.
So the take home message is:
1. There is no proven link between fat intake and heart disease - enjoy your virgin olive oil, organic butter, avocado, nuts and seeds, unrefined coconut oil.
2. The best way to achieve weight loss is to restrict or remove refined carbohydrates from the diet - most breakfast cereals, breads, muffins, cakes, biscuits, sweet sauces, lollies etc.
3. Low GI, nutritious carbohydrates are fine ie most vegetables, grainy breads, nuts and seeds, oats, legumes.
If you would like to see if you might have insulin sensitivity, take the online quiz here.