Study Finds Full-Fat Dairy Can Be Part of a Healthy Diet

A Canadian study led by University of Toronto professor Harvey Anderson suggests that full-fat dairy may be beneficial as part of a healthy diet. The 12-week study involved 74 adults who consumed varying amounts of dairy under different dietary conditions. Findings published in The Journal of Nutrition indicated that daily consumption of three servings of full-fat dairy did not adversely affect body weight, composition, energy metabolism, or blood lipid levels.

Historically, dairy foods have raised concerns due to their saturated fat content, which has been linked to higher cholesterol and a greater risk of cardiovascular disease. As a result, many dietary guidelines, including in Canada, have recommended low-fat or fat-free dairy products to lower saturated fat intake.

Anderson, a professor of nutritional sciences in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine at U of T, noted that human research has not consistently supported these concerns. Numerous studies indicate no harmful health outcomes associated with full-fat dairy consumption. Some recent research, including a study led by Temerty Medicine professor Kozeta Milliku, has reported positive effects from dairy consumption.

In the study, participants were randomly divided into three groups: one followed a low-dairy, calorie-restricted diet, a second group followed an energy-neutral diet with three daily servings of dairy, and a third group had an unrestricted diet also including three servings of dairy. All participants received guidance based on Canada's food guide and were provided with full-fat dairy products.

After 12 weeks, there were no significant differences in weight gain, body composition, or cholesterol levels between the low-dairy group and those consuming three servings of dairy. Participants who consumed more dairy showed improvements in blood pressure and higher intakes of calcium, protein, and vitamin D. Anderson noted that those consuming three servings of dairy did not exhibit adverse levels of blood cholesterol or signs of insulin resistance.

The results challenge the traditional view of saturated fat's impact, potentially explained by the dairy matrix hypothesis. This theory posits that the structure of dairy foods alters nutrient digestion and absorption, suggesting that the health effects of dairy are influenced by the interaction of its components rather than solely the amount of saturated fat present.

Anderson emphasized that the findings could be valuable for older adults who require adequate protein and essential nutrients without excess calories. Dairy, being a familiar food source, can help meet these nutritional needs effectively without elevating the risk of diabetes and chronic diseases.

The study aligns with a growing perspective in nutrition research that emphasizes whole foods instead of focusing on individual nutrients. As dietary advice evolves, Anderson advises: "Keep it simple, eat a variety of foods and not too much of anything."

This research was supported by Dairy Research Cluster 3 through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership AgriScience Program and the Mitacs Accelerate program.