Barbara Howard, PhD, of MedStar Research Institute in Washington, said the following in reference to a 2006 study conducted by her on a low-fat, high-carbs diet plan. "Restricting fat intake does not lead to weight gain," the study concluded. "Long-term recommendations to achieve a diet lower in total and saturated fat with increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and without focus on weight loss, do not cause weight gain."