Long-term effect of fat-reduced foods on energy intake and body weight

In a 3-month intervention study 70 women (40 < age < 60; 24 < BMI < 29), randomized into two groups, were supplied ad libitum and free of charge with 1) customary fat-reduced foods (D group) or 2) products with normal fat content (K group). After 6 months without any contact to the volunteers food intake and body weight were controlled. Results: During the intervention period fat intake (by 22 g/d) and total energy intake (by 266 kcal/d) of the volunteers in the D group were significantly lower than in the K group. Fat reduction was not accompanied by a compensative increase in the intake of other nutrients. The weight loss was significant in the D group (1.5 kg) and not significant in the K group (0.7 kg). Between the two groups the difference in weight reduction was not significant. In the follow-up a lowered fat and energy intake had been voluntarily retained in the D group and adopted by most of the individuals of the K group. Conclusion: The consumption of low-fat products lowers the energy and fat intake and may be useful for a long-term weight control and health support.