Evidence supporting the use of: Total Fat
For the health condition: Fat Cravings
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Total fat refers to the combined amount of all types of fats in a food product, including saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats. The scientific rationale for using dietary fat to address fat cravings is moderately supported. Several studies suggest that fat cravings may arise due to physiological needs or psychological associations with satiety and pleasure. Consuming dietary fats, especially those from healthy sources (like unsaturated fats), can increase feelings of fullness by stimulating the release of satiety hormones such as cholecystokinin and peptide YY. This satiety effect can help reduce cravings for high-fat foods by satisfying the body's desire for fat intake.
However, the evidence is mixed. While some research supports the idea that consuming adequate dietary fat can reduce cravings and promote satiety, other studies indicate that overconsumption of fat-rich foods may reinforce cravings and lead to habitual overeating, especially with highly palatable, energy-dense foods. There is no standardized clinical protocol recommending increased fat intake solely to treat fat cravings, but dietary guidelines do recognize the role of fat in satiety.
In summary, there is moderate scientific validation for using total fat intake to help manage fat cravings, primarily by enhancing satiety and potentially reducing the desire for additional high-fat foods. The evidence is not robust enough for a higher rating, as individual responses vary and more research is needed to establish clear recommendations.
Other health conditions supported by Total Fat
AmenorrheaConvalescence
Energy (lack of)
Fat Cravings
Memory and Brain Function