Don't Give Up on Low-Fat Food Choices for Overall Health, Protection from Disease

Three major new studies scheduled for publication this week - finding that postmenopausal women who followed a low-fat eating pattern did not significantly reduce their risk of breast cancer, heart disease or stroke - should not be seen by consumers as a reason to discontinue a varied, healthful eating plan and maintaining a healthy weight, according the food and nutrition experts of the American Dietetic Association.

Results from the studies, the largest-ever controlled clinical trial of whether a low-fat dietary plan would reduce middle-aged to older women's risk of breast cancer, heart disease or stroke, are scheduled to be published in the February 9 Journal of the American Medical Association. The researchers found no significant reductions in risk among more than 48,000 women over an eight-year period.

"These new studies are important and should be carefully evaluated," said registered dietitian and physician Christine Gerbstadt, a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. "It is also important to remember that research over many years indicates an overall plan of healthful eating - including plenty of fruits, fiber and vegetables - may help protect against a number of chronic diseases and conditions, including some forms of cancer."

Gerbstadt cautioned that the results of the Women's Health Initiative studies should not be seen as an invitation to adopt a high-fat diet in the belief that lower fat intakes lack health benefits.

"As a registered dietitian, I encourage everyone to follow the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which recommend keeping total fat intake between 20 percent to 35 percent of daily calories." The Dietary Guidelines recommend most fats come from sources like fish, nuts and vegetable oils.

"Obesity remains this country's number-one public health problem, especially given how closely it is related to many life-threatening conditions, including several forms of cancer, coronary heart disease, diabetes and metabolic syndrome," Gerbstadt said. "It has been shown that achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, plus increased physical activity, can help reduce your likelihood of these conditions."

Consumers interested in learning more about the importance of a well-balanced diet for disease prevention are urged to consult with a registered dietitian - their best source of food and nutrition information. To locate a registered dietitian in your area, visit the American Dietetic Association at http://www.eatright.org.

With nearly 65,000 members, the American Dietetic Association is the nation's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Chicago-based ADA serves the public by promoting optimal nutrition, health and well-being.