‘Trans Fats’, the most harmful type of fats

‘Trans Fat’ is produced through hydrogenation, which is the process whereby hydrogen is added to liquid fat, solidifying it in order to give food the maximum durability possible.

‘Trans fat’ is named ‘the hidden fat’ as many countries do not inform consumers of its presence within their food labels however, the USA has prohibited its use of ‘Trans Fat’ in a number of states, with the remaining states planning to follow their footstep in the coming years.

‘Trans Fats’ can be found in the majority of products that have a long shelf life such as:

• Margarine
• Precooked meals.
• Biscuits/Cookies.
• Industrial Pastries.
• Soups and ready-made sauces.
• Microwave Popcorn.
• Doughnuts.
• Crisps.
• Reused vegetable oil.
• Etc.

Customers are informed of the presence of ‘Trans Fats’ through a label that says ‘contains partly Hydrogenated Fat’ however, the biggest issue occurs when food companies do not place this warning, as they are not required to do by health laws in a large number of countries.

What damaging effects does ‘Trans Fat’ cause to your health?

• It increases cholesterol levels, especially LDL Cholesterol (bad cholesterol).
• It increases the number of triglycerides.
• It decreases the levels of HDL Cholesterol (good cholesterol).
• It increases the risk of cardiovascular accidents (heart attacks, stroke).
• It increases the risk of diabetes.
• It contributes to the development of dementia due to an increase in inflammatory cerebral processes.

‘Trans Fats’ can be easily replaced by healthy foods and would aid in the development of a healthier population. This should be the aim of governments and the food industry.

Dr. J. Hurtado Martínez

Medical Director of HealthSalus