The Complex Legacy of Ancel Keys’ Seven Countries Study
In the mid-20th century, Ancel Keys’ Seven Countries Study was groundbreaking, proposing a link between saturated fat intake and heart disease. However, over time, it’s become evident that the study may have been influenced by confirmation bias. Keys focused on countries that supported his hypothesis, while overlooking other populations where high saturated fat diets didn’t lead to heart disease.
In contrast, researchers like Weston Price, George Mann, and Vilhjálmur Stefánsson demonstrated that traditional, animal-based diets, rich in healthy fats, could support vibrant health. These cultures, free from refined sugars and processed foods, exhibited low rates of chronic diseases. Their findings underscore the importance of whole, unprocessed foods in promoting long-term health.
In essence, while the Seven Countries Study laid the groundwork for dietary guidelines, it’s crucial to consider the broader picture. The work of Price, Mann, and Stefánsson reminds us that diet is complex, and that the quality of food matters just as much, if not more, than the macronutrient composition alone. #FiatFood 
