Why We Eat (Too Much)

by Andrew Jenkinson

  A recent independent meta-analysis of all the previous studies that looked at the relationship between saturated fats in the diet and the risk of death failed to show any increased risk, in particular no increased risk of developing heart disease, having a stroke or developing diabetes.11

  Statins undoubtedly work in some cases, but I suspect that the rationale for prescribing them – high LDL and only slightly elevated total cholesterol levels – means that they are over-prescribed. The research certainly suits the pharmaceutical companies which produce the statins, but why are some medical associations (like the AHA) ignoring valid scientific research? What is the benefit for them? I will leave you to decide. Unfortunately, the perpetuation of the diet–heart hypothesis in the face of contradictory research means that dietary guidelines are stuck with the recommendation to avoid saturated fats from natural foods and to replace them with grains and artificial oils. Without these issues being addressed, our populations will still be guided to consume an obesogenic diet – and obesity will remain a major public health problem.

  APPENDIX 2

  Glycaemic Load and Omega-3 to Omega-6 Ratio of Common Foods

  Source: Data courtesy of USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Nutrition Data; https://nutritiondata.self.com.

  Notes on Appendix 2

  Natural omega 3:6 ratio of diet is 1:1 to 1:4.

  Most Western diets have omega 3:6 ratio of 1:15 or more.

  Aim to reduce your omega 3:6 ratio towards natural levels.

  The glycaemic load of foods is dependent on portion size; i.e. 1 large baked potato = glycaemic load 29, 2 large baked potatoes = glycaemic load 58.

  Step 5 of the plan encourages starting with a daily glycaemic load maximum of 100, then slowly reducing this to a daily load of 80, or lower if this is comfortable. Remember, when replacing carb-heavy foods do not avoid natural foods that contain saturated fats, such as meat and dairy products. Also, remember most vegetables have a low glycaemic load and a good omega profile.

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  3 Dieting and the Biggest Losers

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  4 Why We Eat

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  5 The Glutton

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  7 The Master Chef

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  8 The Heart of the Matter

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  9 The Omega Code

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  11 Allport (2006). The Queen of Fats.

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  16 Allport (2006). The Queen of Fats.

  10 The Sugar Roller Coaster

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  2 R. Henry et al. (1993). Intensive conventional insulin therapy for type II diabetes. Metabolic effects during a 6-mo outpatient trial. Diabetes Care, 16(1), January, 21–31.