For decades, health experts have told us to cut out saturated fats to protect our hearts. But the Minnesota Coronary Experiment (MCE) challenges this widely accepted idea. What if the real cause of heart disease isn’t saturated fat, but something else, like sugar?

The Minnesota Coronary Experiment reveals shocking results that could change our understanding of heart disease and how we should approach dietary fat. Let’s dive into the findings of this landmark study and explore why sugar may be the true culprit.

Ancel Keys, the Seven-Country Study, and the Fat Myth

In the 1950s, Ancel Keys proposed that saturated fat and cholesterol clogged arteries and caused heart disease. He based his theory on the Seven-Country Study, which showed that countries with high fat intake had higher rates of heart disease.

However, Keys’ study was flawed. He cherry-picked data from seven countries that fit his theory, ignoring others that didn’t. This is an example of confirmation bias—only using data that confirms a hypothesis.

Despite this, Keys’ hypothesis became widely accepted. Health authorities recommended we reduce saturated fat and replace it with vegetable oils. We were told to avoid foods like butter, cheese, and fatty meats in favor of low-fat foods.

The Minnesota Coronary Experiment: What It Reveals About Saturated Fat

The Minnesota Coronary Experiment (1968-1973) tested whether replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats (like those in corn and soybean oil) could reduce heart disease risk. The study was a randomized controlled trial (RCT)—the gold standard of clinical research.

Here’s what the study found:

• Lower Cholesterol, Higher Mortality: Participants who ate more polyunsaturated oils had lower cholesterol. However, they also had a higher mortality rate. Lower cholesterol didn’t improve their health outcomes.
• No Heart Disease Improvement: The researchers expected that lowering cholesterol would reduce heart disease, but the data showed no improvement. Some participants even had a higher risk of death.

These shocking results contradicted the idea that reducing saturated fat would improve heart health.

Why the Minnesota Coronary Experiment Was Suppressed

For years, the findings of the Minnesota Coronary Experiment were hidden. The results didn’t support the widely accepted belief that saturated fats caused heart disease. As a result, the study was largely ignored.

Meanwhile, the sugar industry quietly worked to shift the blame from sugar and fats, reinforcing the idea that fat—especially saturated fat—was the problem.

Key Takeaways from the Minnesota Coronary Experiment

What can we learn from the Minnesota Coronary Experiment?

1. Saturated Fat May Not Be the Culprit: The study suggests saturated fats (found in butter, meat, and eggs) aren’t as harmful as we’ve been led to believe. There’s no clear evidence they cause heart disease. Newer research, like the PURE study, supports this conclusion.
2. Polyunsaturated Fats Aren’t the Magic Solution: The Minnesota study showed that replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats didn’t improve heart health. In fact, it may have increased the risk of death. This raises questions about the widespread promotion of vegetable oils, which are high in omega-6 fatty acids linked to inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which contribute to heart disease.
3. Sugar Is the Real Problem: If fat isn’t the cause, what is? The answer seems to lie in sugar. Emerging research shows that sugar, especially refined carbohydrates and added sugars, drives insulin resistance, inflammation, and metabolic disease—all strongly linked to heart disease. Studies like the PURE study show that high sugar intake (rather than fat) is associated with increased heart disease risk.

Supporting Research and Evidence

The Minnesota Coronary Experiment is not the only study challenging the fat-heart disease hypothesis. Several others support its findings:

• The Sydney Diet Heart Study: This study found that replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats lowered cholesterol but increased heart disease risk and mortality.
• The Women’s Health Initiative: This large study showed that reducing fat intake didn’t lower heart disease risk. It suggested that carbohydrates, especially refined grains, might play a more significant role in heart disease.
• The PURE Study: This global study showed that higher fat intake, including saturated fat, was linked to a lower risk of stroke. The study found no link between fat intake and heart disease risk. It also revealed that higher carbohydrate intake, especially from refined sugars, increases heart disease risk.

The Real Culprit: Refined Carbs and Sugar

The Minnesota Coronary Experiment, along with other studies, points to sugar and refined carbohydrates as the true causes of heart disease. These foods contribute to insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and other metabolic issues that raise heart disease risk.

In contrast, healthy fats, including saturated fats from foods like meat, butter, and coconut oil, are not as harmful as we’ve been led to believe. These fats provide essential nutrients and support metabolic health.

Conclusion: Rethinking Heart Disease Prevention Based on the Minnesota Coronary Experiment

The Minnesota Coronary Experiment and supporting studies challenge the traditional belief that saturated fats cause heart disease. Instead, we should focus on reducing sugar and refined carbs in our diets.

It’s time to stop fearing foods like butter, eggs, and fatty meats. These foods are not only safe but also beneficial when consumed as part of a whole-foods-based diet. We need to focus on the true causes of heart disease, not continue blaming healthy fats.

By prioritizing whole foods and minimizing refined sugars, we can take control of our health and make informed decisions about our diets.

Fuel Your Body with the Power of Meat!

Looking for a simple, nutrient-packed snack that supports your carnivore lifestyle? The Carnivore Bar is your perfect solution! Made with only high-quality animal-based ingredients, it delivers the pure protein, fat, and nutrients your body craves.

Benefits of the Carnivore Bar:

• 100% Meat-Based: No added sugars, preservatives, or fillers—just real, whole food.
• High in Protein: Perfect for muscle repair, energy, and staying lean.
• Convenient and Portable: Take it with you on the go for a quick, satisfying meal or snack.
• Supports Keto & Carnivore Diets: Ideal for those following a low-carb, high-fat lifestyle.

Experience the simplicity and power of a meat-based diet with the Carnivore Bar. Ready to make the change? Learn more and get your Carnivore Bars today!