The Truth and Facts About Trans Fats

The FDA's recent decision to require all manufacturers to list the amount of trans fats in foods has finally brought light to what is widely considered the most dangerous form of fat. If you are like most people, you probably never heard of trans fats until this past month. Well, the fat is finally out of the bag (and listed on the bag of your favorite cookie). Here is the truth about trans fats.

Trans fats can be found in many of Americans' favorite processed foods, including cookies and other baked goods, such as doughnuts, crackers, and frozen waffles, as well as chips, margarines, popcorn, and french fries. Why? Because trans fats enhance the way foods taste. They make crisp foods crunchier and creamy foods creamier. Moreover, for manufacturers, trans fats extend the shelf life of foods and the price is lower than other fats.

Trans fats are engineered from liquid oils through a process called hydrogenation, and most come from processed foods, while some occur naturally in meat and dairy products. Trans fats raise harmful LDL cholesterol levels and thereby increase the risk for heart disease.

Although there is currently no suggested daily allowance for trans fats, the American Heart Association recommends limiting your total fat intake to no more than eight (8) teaspoons per day. And of course, you should limit your trans fat intake as well, by relying heavily on whole foods, lean meats, fruits and vegetables.

The FDA's new rule requiring manufacturers to disclose the amount of trans fats in foods is expected to save hundreds of lives over the next three years and prevent thousands of cases of coronary heart disease. Consumers no longer need to look for words like "partially hydrogenated" in order to discover the dangerous trans fats, they need merely look under the nutrition facts. Moreover, the FDA's new requirement will help to educate American consumers about the dangers of trans fats.

This has also resulted in changes for manufacturers, who are currently seeking suitable replacements for the dangerous trans fats.

Of course, trans fats are not the only ingredients consumers should look out for. Americans must continue to check the levels of saturated fats and the total fat content when considering purchasing any product. We must also keep in mind the dangers of trans fats when eating out.

I hope you enjoyed reading The Truth About Trans Fats, and remember keep a check on your LDL cholesterol level.