If a food is low in fat, fat-free, light or reduced-fat, it must be healthy? Myth or Fact??

MYTH: Lot of foods that are low in fat are definitely not healthy choice: candy, pop, low-fat cookies and fat-free frozen treats.

“Fat-free” is can also be taste-free!! To make up for that, food industries tend to pour other ingredients, like sugar, flour, thickeners, and salt into the products, which add up calories, just like our famous low fat FROZEN YOGURT). Some foods are higher in fat but provide good fats – essential fatty acids (e.g. omega-3): oily varieties of fish, avocados, nuts and seeds. Essential fats are important for maintaining healthy blood vessels, making hormones and for the optimal functioning of our nervous system.

When reading food labels, consider the overall nutrient content of a food item rather than judge it by its fat content alone!

By Ms. Ayla Coussa 

Clinical Dietitian