The Benefits Of A Diet Consisting Of Moderate Amounts Of Fat

You may not want to opt for low-fat salad dressing anymore. New research shows fats actually help the body absorb nutrients found in vegetables.

Researchers studied men and women between ages 19 and 28. Participants consumed lettuce and other vegetables topped with salad dressing that contained zero, six or 28 grams of canola oil. Blood tests were taken every 11 hours following each meal.

Results showed that when patients consumed fat-free dressings, they absorbed virtually no beta-carotene. On the other hand, when they consumed full-fat and reduced-fat dressings, they had a greater absorption of lycopene, alpha- and beta-carotene, all of which aid in the fight against cancer and heart disease.

Researchers say their findings are consistent with U.S. dietary guidelines, which support a diet moderate, rather than very low, in fat.