New research suggests low fat dairy produce may be a secret weapon against obesity.
Scientists at the University of Tennessee, USA, say that con- suming three to four servings a day of low fat milk or other low fat dairy foods may reduce the risk of obesity at any given calorie intake by around 80%.
They believe this occurs because a diet high in calcium and low fat dairy foods causes fat cells to generate less fat and encourages them to turn on the machinery to break fat down.
The discovery was made after analysis of results from tests on animals. Four different diets were administered to separate groups of mice. The diet highest in low fat dairy foods was most effective at helping to control body fat.
The scientists applied these findings to the US population and discovered that, after accounting for calorific intake, physical activity and other factors, body fat was markedly lower in people who consumed more dairy products.
Nutritionists hope the findings will send out a more positive image of dairy products to weight- conscious women.