Fat substitutes are used safely in commercial products. These products help foods retain some of the taste and cooking qualities of fats without the additional calories. One fat substitute is called olestra. Olestra is passed from the body without leaving behind any calories from fat.

Olestra has been shown to deplete the body of vitamins A, K, D, and E. It will also deplete important disease-fighting nutrients found in dark colored fruits and vegetables. Some nutrition experts are concerned about the possible effects this might have on the body.