Eating full fat dairy products could help prevent heart disease or strokes, according to the findings of a new Australian study.
Researchers say it is a surprising, but not unfounded, result.
Scientists from the Queensland Institute of Medical Research surveyed 1500 people on their eating habits over 16 years, keeping track of who died and what caused their death.
Researchers found those who had the highest intake of full-fat dairy had a 70% lower risk of death from heart disease or stroke.
Dr Jolieke van der Pols says there may be some nutrients in full-fat dairy products that counteract the negative effects of saturated fat.
She says eating too much fat is not good but in a healthy diet full-fat dairy can have a place.
Dr van der Pols says while the findings are promising, more research is needed.
