Ask the Diva: Is Low-Fat Better than Low-Calorie?
Nutrition Diva explains why low-fat is not better than low-calorie.
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
Q. I found your podcast on different non-dairy milks very interesting. My question is this: Is it more important to limit fat or calories? In other words, am I better off with a fat-free product even if it’s a little higher in calories?
Answer. I don’t think so. For the sake of argument, let’s imagine that your choice was between two milks that had the same number of calories but one was higher in fat. The one with some fat is probably going to keep you satisfied longer because fat takes longer to digest. Eating some fat with a meal or food also helps steady blood sugar. And, as you’ll learn in this week’s podcast, diet with a moderate amount of fat seem to be more effective for weight management than low-fat diets. So, given equal calories, I’d definitely choose the one that’s higher in fat. And if the one that’s higher in fat is also lower in calories, it makes the choice that much simpler!
See also: The Role of Fats in a Healthy Diet
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.