MAKING MILK HEALTHIER

RESEARCHERS have found a way to reduce the saturated fat in milk, while still retaining its goodness.

By adding rapeseed oil, a good fat, to the diet of cows, scientists at Reading University have managed to lower the proportion of saturated fat in their milk from 70 per cent of total fat to 50 per cent.

It is hoped this will encourage people to consume more dairy products.

Dr Tony Goldstone, of Imperial College London, studies the effect that food – particularly food high in fat, sugar and salt – has on our brains.

His research shows that no matter how hard we try, there

are some foods we just can’t resist, and people’s brains light up when they see – and eat – high-calorie foods.

He believes dieting makes junk food cravings worse.

Goldstone said: “People get accused of just being weak-willed and I think that is very unfair, because when we try to diet and lose weight there are changes in our bodies that signal to our brains, ‘Hang on a sec, you haven’t eaten.’”

He is developing a hormone that will stop intense cravings, making it easier to lose weight.

It could have the same effect as a gastric bypass, without the need for surgery.

Goldstone’s team are trialling the hormone, which could be available in the UK within five years.