Effect of Dietary Lecithin and Nature of Dietary Fat Upon Growth and Bile Composition in the Gerbil

Abstract

The American diet is rich in fat, particularly saturated fat. In this century the consumption pattern has shifted such that 40 – 45% of calories are provided by fat. In contrast, our ancestors at the turn of the century may have consumed 25 – 30% of their calories as fat. A rise in the incidence of cardiovascular disease, and other conditions of impaired fat digestion, absorption and transport has accompanied this dietary trend(1). Professional societies, e. g., the American Heart Association, and the Government have issued diet recommendations, urging Americans to reduce their fat intake to 30% of calories, and include unsaturated fats in their menus. Though no absolute proof exists linking the disease incidence with dietary practice, sufficient evidence exists that these groups have sounded the alarm calling for a change in eating habits for improved quality of life.