To examine the impact of dairy products on mortality risk and cardiovascular health, Dr. Mozaffarian and his team studied 2,900 U.S. seniors aged 65 and older.
The researchers measured the participants' blood plasma levels of three fatty acids contained in dairy products at the beginning of the study, 6 years later, and 13 years later.
The subjects were examined in relation to "total mortality, specific mortality, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk."
During the 22-year follow-up period, 2,428 of the participants died. 833 of these deaths were due to heart disease.
However, none of the three fatty acids examined showed changes in overall mortality risk. In fact, high circulating levels of heptadecanoic fatty acids were associated with a lower risk of death from heart disease. Additionally, adults with higher levels of fatty acids were 42% less likely to die from stroke, the analysis found.
According to the study's corresponding author, the findings suggest that current dietary guidelines need to be changed. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, published by the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, recommend that nonfat and low-fat (1%) dairy products be consumed, including milk, yogurt, cheese, or processed soy beverages. Its consumption is recommended.
However, Otto did not agree. “Consistent with previous findings, our results underscore the need to reconsider current dietary guidance on whole dairy foods, which are rich sources of nutrients such as calcium and potassium. ”
“These are essential for health not only during childhood but throughout life, especially in later years when malnutrition and conditions such as osteoporosis are more common,” the researcher adds.
Milk and Contrary to popular belief, the fat in dairy products does not increase the risk of heart disease or overall mortality in older adults.
Additionally, results suggest that a fatty acid found in dairy products may reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, especially stroke. p>
Marcia Otto “Consumers have very different opinions about diet, especially regarding fats. and is exposed to conflicting information," he adds, emphasizing that a growing body of evidence suggests that dairy fat is actually good for you.
Otto says, "It was important to have solid studies, so people would be more balanced based on scientific fact rather than sense." and they can make informed choices,” he adds.
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