Federal vitamin pointers have lengthy suggested limiting full-fat dairy due largely to its saturated fats content material, which might be dangerous to well being, together with by elevating the danger of heart problems, Dr. Eilerman says.
Nonetheless, “Some newer research recommend that dairy — whether or not low-fat or full-fat — could have impartial results on cardiovascular well being when consumed moderately,” says Sapna Batheja, PhD, RDN, an affiliate professor of meals and vitamin research at George Mason College in Fairfax, Virginia. “The connection between dairy fats and well being outcomes is extra advanced than as soon as thought.”
She provides, “These advantages are nonetheless being studied, and the upper calorie and saturated fats content material in whole-milk dairy might not be very best for everybody.”
“This challenges the previous recommendation that low-fat dairy is at all times higher,” Dr. Echeverry says.
General Eating regimen High quality Might Be a Issue
Dr. Batheja says it’s vital to notice that saturated fats from complete meals, like milk, yogurt, or cheese, could not have the identical well being affect as saturated fats from ultra-processed meals, akin to fried snacks or packaged pastries.
She notes that many research linking saturated fats to poor well being outcomes are primarily based on diets excessive in processed meals, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates — however full-fat dairy consumed as a part of an general balanced weight loss plan doesn’t seem to hold the identical dangers.
“This doesn’t imply all dairy is equally helpful, however it does imply there could also be extra flexibility than older pointers recommended, and the main target needs to be on general dietary high quality reasonably than only one nutrient,” Batheja says.
