CHICAGO -- People eating a mixed diet of
lower-fat and high-fat foods consume more vitamins and minerals than those who stick to
only lower-fat foods or high-fat foods, according to a study published in the May issue of
the Journal of the American Dietetic Association.
Researchers from the University of Nevada compared dietary intakes
of more than 14,000 American children and adults and divided them into three groups:
low-fat eaters (those who ate lower-fat versions of selected foods), high-fat eaters
(those who ate "regular" versions of selected foods) and "mixed"
eaters (those who ate both lower-fat and regular versions of selected foods).
Study findings showed that those who ate a mixed diet had higher
intakes of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, fiber, most B vitamins, vitamins A
and C and folate.
"This study is a perfect example of how all foods can fit into
a healthful eating plan," says registered dietitian and ADA spokesperson Connie
Diekman. "People don't have to feel guilty about eating their favorite foods, so long
as they are eating a balance of foods as well as getting regular physical
activity."
Researchers also found that female lower-fat and mixed diet eaters,
as well as children who consumed lower-fat foods, met the federal government's dietary
guidelines of 30 percent energy from fat. Those in the high-fat food group did not meet
dietary guidelines for fat and saturated fat.
Adults consuming lower-fat and high-fat foods were significantly
more likely to be better educated, have higher incomes, be white and be older than low- or
high-fat-only eaters. Similarly, children consuming a mixed diet tended to be younger,
white and come from families with higher incomes.
"Incorporating low-fat foods into an eating plan has been shown
to reduce fat and saturated fat intakes while still maintaining adequate nutrient
intakes," says Diekman.
Sunday June 15 is Father's Day and what better
way to tell dad that you love him than to give him a gift for his health?
Good gift ideas for dad include a coupon for a fitness class, a
subscription to a health or nutrition newsletter, a scheduled time for dad and the kids to
walk or inline skate at the park, or make a special meal together.
Plan a tasty and healthful Father's Day meal around lots of
vegetables and lean meat or fish. Start with a green salad mixed with chopped veggies and
sliced almonds. For the entrée, grill a lean beef filet or grilled salmon.
Add roasted vegetables as a side dish or mix couscous with steamed
vegetables.
For dessert, go simple with frozen yogurt or try a healthy parfait
of angel food cake, low-fat pudding, fresh fruit and low-fat whipped topping.
