A study by Canadian researchers showed that consuming full-fat dairy products in moderate amounts does not lead to weight gain or high cholesterol levels.
The study included 74 overweight or obese adults, who were randomly assigned to three groups and subjected to different diets for 12 weeks: the first group followed a low-calorie diet with a small amount of dairy, the second group consumed three daily servings of full-fat dairy products without changing their total calorie intake, and the third group consumed the same serving of dairy without calorie restrictions. All participants adhered to healthy eating guidelines.
The results showed that people who consumed three servings a day of full-fat dairy did not differ in their weight, body fat percentage, cholesterol levels, or other lipid metabolism indicators compared to participants who reduced their dairy consumption. They also had lower blood pressure, higher calcium, protein, and vitamin D content in their diet, and no signs of impaired insulin sensitivity.
The researchers point out that their findings confirm that the impact of dairy products on the body cannot be assessed solely based on their saturated fat content. They believe that the so-called "dairy matrix"—the complex composition of the product that affects nutrient absorption—plays a key role. However, the scientists emphasize that this depends on the moderate consumption of full-fat dairy products as part of a balanced diet, not on unrestrained consumption.
