Fat-Free Foods May be High Calorie Weight-Loss
Saboteurs
Obesity & Low Fat Foods
The introduction of more than 5,000 low-fat and non-fat foods over the
past decade has contributed to an epidemic of obesity in America, according
to the American Heart Association (AHA).
Unlimited Low Fat Foods
The problem is when people think they can eat unlimited amounts of reduced-fat
cookies, frozen yogurt and cakes. While these foods contain less fat than
their full-fat versions, they tend to have more sugar and can be even
higher in calories. Choosing fresh produce and other fiber-rich foods
allows a person to eat a large volume for relatively few calories because
it promotes a feeling of fullness.
Obesity USA
The advice from health experts comes at a time when rates of obesity are
unprecedented in the US and other countries. While Americans have followed
the government's advice and reduced fat intake in the past half-century,
they continue to gain weight. Weight loss studies have shown that the
rate of obesity has doubled in the US in the last 20 years while the number
of people with type 2 diabetes, a disease that can result from excess
weight, increased by one-third during the 1990s.
Weight Loss & Food Guide Pyramid
The AHA's statement recommends that individuals who want to lose weight
and maintain a healthy body weight follow the US government's food guide
pyramid and pay particular attention to portion sizes.
Source: Circulation June 11, 2002
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