What are trans fats and why are they bad for you?

Trans fats, also known as trans-fatty acids, are a type of unsaturated fat that is artificially created through a process called hydrogenation. This process is used to turn liquid oils into solid fats, making them more stable and giving them a longer shelf life. Trans fats can be found in a wide range of processed and packaged foods, including fried foods, baked goods, and snack foods.

While small amounts of natural trans fats can be found in some animal products, like meat and dairy, the majority of trans fats in the average diet come from processed foods that are high in partially hydrogenated oils.

Unfortunately, trans fats are widely recognized as one of the most harmful types of dietary fats. They are linked to a range of health problems, including increased LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol), decreased HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol), and an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Here are a few of the key reasons why trans fats are so bad for you:

1. They raise your LDL cholesterol levels: Trans fats have been shown to raise levels of LDL cholesterol, which can build up in your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
2. They lower your HDL cholesterol levels: HDL cholesterol is often called the “good” cholesterol, because it helps to remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries. Trans fats have been shown to lower HDL cholesterol levels, which can make it harder for your body to get rid of the LDL cholesterol that’s contributing to heart disease.
3. They increase inflammation: Trans fats have been shown to increase inflammation in the body, which is linked to a range of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
4. They increase your risk of heart disease: Multiple studies have shown that a diet high in trans fats is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems.

In response to these health concerns, many countries have introduced regulations or outright bans on the use of trans fats in foods. The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for the elimination of trans fats from the global food supply by 2023.

In the meantime, the best way to avoid trans fats is to focus on eating a healthy, whole-foods based diet that’s low in processed and packaged foods. When you do eat packaged foods, be sure to read the labels carefully and look for products that are labeled as “trans fat-free” or “0g trans fats per serving.”