For years, many of us have trusted labels like low-fat or sugar-free when trying to lose weight.
But according to a University of Georgia study reported by The Mirror in 2017, foods marketed as “diet-friendly” may actually encourage weight gain.
Researchers found that even when calorie intake stayed the same, animals fed high-sugar, low-fat foods gained more weight and showed signs of liver stress.
Lead researcher Dr. Krzysztof Czaja explained that removing fat often means adding sugar, which can disrupt the body’s metabolism and increase the risk of obesity.
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Experts say fat isn’t the enemy
Around the same time, cardiologist Dr. Aseem Malhotra and several other physicians questioned long-held fears about natural fats like butter and cream.
They argued that focusing on whole, home-cooked meals, rather than obsessing over fat content, is a more effective way to protect heart health and maintain a healthy weight.
Their advice: skip processed “light” products and cook simple meals using recognizable ingredients such as vegetables, whole grains, fish, and lean meats.
Cooking your way slim
Nutrition experts agree that meals made from scratch help people control portions and avoid hidden sugars.
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Dietitian Linda Foster notes that whole foods rich in fiber and protein digest slowly, helping people feel satisfied for longer.
A bowl of lentil stew, for instance, delivers more nutrients and lasting fullness than a sugary snack of similar calories.
Beyond weight loss, eating home-cooked meals has been linked to lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
The message is simple: eating real food doesn’t require exotic ingredients or strict calorie counts, just fresh produce, good-quality proteins, and a return to the kitchen.
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Sources: The Mirror, and University of Georgia.
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