1980s fat guidelines 'lacked evidence,' study argues

Conclusion This research found the pooled results of six RCTs available prior to 1983, which all looked at interventions to moderate saturated fat intake, did not find this had an effect on deaths from heart disease or any other cause. But it is very important that the specific purpose of this review is considered, and the findings are interpreted in the right context. This review specifically looked at nutrition guidance given in the US in 1977 and in 1983 in the UK. In particular, the researchers looked at two recommendations: reduce overall fat consumption to 30% of total energy intake reduce saturated fat consumption to 10% of total energy intake The researchers specifically wanted to see whether RCTs available at that time supported those recommendations. But there are some specific points to consider from the results of this analysis. Evidence considered by the 1977 and 1983 guidelines We are not able to review the methods used by the US and UK government bodies in forming their nutrition recommendations. We also do not know what evidence they considered. The authors of the current review state that: "Both documents acknowledged that the evidence was not conclusive ... the Dietary Goals for the US noted 'there will undoubtedly be many people who will say we have not proven our point.' The UK publication referred to 'a strong consensus of opinion'." We cannot comment further on how this nutrition guidance may have been produced, or how they may ...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Food/diet Heart/lungs Lifestyle/exercise Medical practice Obesity Source Type: news