Macro partitioning
The health effects of saturated fat are dependent on the food matrix and the overall dietary pattern, particularly carbohydrate intake, such that high saturated fat intake combined with low carbohydrate intake does not increase circulating saturated fatty acids or CVD risk.
If you are insulin resistant or consuming a high-carbohydrate diet, high saturated fat intake may be less beneficial. However, if you reduce carbohydrates, your body will oxidize saturated fat for energy, leading to lower circulating levels of harmful lipids. Focus on the balance of macronutrients rather than just cutting saturated fat.
It is also apparent that the health effects of foods cannot be predicted by their content in any nutrient group, without considering the overall macronutrient distribution. ... Decreased accumulation of circulating SFA in response to diets lower in carbohydrate and higher in saturated fat is partially mediated by lower production (through de novo lipogenesis), but also increased clearance.
Why this rating
Supported by multiple studies showing tracking of circulating SFAs with carbohydrate intake rather than dietary SFA intake.
Source
Saturated Fats and Health: A Reassessment and Proposal for Food-Based Recommendations
Arne Astrup et al. · Journal of the American College of Cardiology · 2020
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