This paper provides a review of studies published since 1993 regarding the role of dietary fat in the development of obesity, the metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. The available data on the association of total fat intake and saturated fat intake with body weight remain inconclusive. A relationship between intake of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids and body weight could not be determined either. The authors also conclude that there is insufficient evidence liking type 2 diabetes risk with dietary fat intake or any particular type of fat. However, several studies suggest that total fat and saturated fat intakes increase the risk of having components of the metabolic syndrome and that higher intakes of monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids have a beneficial effect in reducing such risk.
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