Cutting Fat Didn't Save Lives in Old Studies
Evidence from randomised controlled trials did not support the introduction of dietary fat guidelines in 1977 and 1983: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
The only trial testing the 10% saturated fat target had higher mortality in the intervention group.
Everyone assumes lower saturated fat = safer. This trial directly contradicts that — and it was one of the few trying to follow the official guideline.
Practical Takeaways
Don’t assume low-fat = healthy. Focus on whole foods, minimize processed 'low-fat' products, and prioritize balanced meals over fat percentages.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
The only trial testing the 10% saturated fat target had higher mortality in the intervention group.
Everyone assumes lower saturated fat = safer. This trial directly contradicts that — and it was one of the few trying to follow the official guideline.
Practical Takeaways
Don’t assume low-fat = healthy. Focus on whole foods, minimize processed 'low-fat' products, and prioritize balanced meals over fat percentages.
Publication
Journal
Open Heart
Year
2015
Authors
Z. Harcombe, J. Baker, S. Cooper, B. Davies, N. Sculthorpe, J. DiNicolantonio, Fergal M Grace
Related Content
Claims (10)
Multiple large-scale meta-analyses of prospective cohort studies demonstrate no statistically significant association between dietary saturated fat intake and incidence of coronary heart disease or cardiovascular disease.
All the studies were done on men who already had heart problems — we don’t know if the same results would apply to women or people without heart disease.
The studies weren’t perfectly done — many didn’t hide who was on which diet, and people had to remember what they ate, which might have messed up the results.
The diets weren’t just about eating less fat — they also banned butter, added lots of vegetable oil, and cut out eggs, so we don’t know which part actually mattered.
None of the studies said, 'Eat less fat to live longer' — in fact, some warned it might not help or could even be harmful.