The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially banned the use of artificial trans fats in all food products.
This new rule, which went into effect in 2018, aims to reduce the prevalence of heart disease and other health problems associated with a high intake of trans fats.
What are Trans Fats?
Trans fats, also known as partially hydrogenated oils, are a type of unsaturated fat that are commonly used in packaged and processed foods. They are created by adding hydrogen to vegetable oil, which makes it more solid and stable at room temperature.
This gives the food a longer shelf life and a better texture, but it also makes it more harmful to our health.
Why are Trans Fats Bad for You?
Trans fats have been linked to a number of health problems, including:.
- High LDL cholesterol
- Low HDL cholesterol
- Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
- Insulin resistance
- Type 2 diabetes
These harmful effects occur because trans fats raise the level of LDL cholesterol, which is known as the “bad” cholesterol. They also lower the level of HDL cholesterol, which is known as the “good” cholesterol.
This imbalance can lead to a buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can eventually cause them to become blocked. This can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or other serious health problems.
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Trans Fats Now Prohibited in US
What Foods Contain Trans Fats?
Trans fats are commonly found in processed foods such as:.
- Baked Goods (cakes, cookies, pastries, etc.)
- Frozen Foods
- Coffee Creamer
- Margarine
- Snack Foods (chips, crackers, etc.)
- Fried Foods (French fries, chicken nuggets, etc.)
What Does the Ban Mean?
The FDA’s ban means that food companies are no longer allowed to use partially hydrogenated oils in their products. This doesn’t mean that all trans fats are removed from our food, but it significantly reduces our exposure.
According to the FDA, “removing partially hydrogenated oils from processed foods could prevent thousands of heart attacks and deaths each year.” This ban is a huge win for public health and will help to reduce the number of preventable deaths caused by heart disease.
How Can You Avoid Trans Fats?
While the ban on trans fats is a step in the right direction, it’s still important to be mindful of the foods you’re eating. Here are some tips for avoiding trans fats:.
- Read Nutrition Labels – Look for products that are labeled “trans-fat free” or “contains zero grams of trans fats.”
- Avoid Processed Foods – Stick to whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Choose Healthy Fats – Opt for monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats like olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds.
- Cook Your Own Food – When you cook your own food, you have more control over the ingredients you use.
The Bottom Line
The ban on trans fats is a huge step for public health. By reducing our intake of trans fats, we can significantly decrease our risk of heart disease and other health problems.
Be mindful of the foods you’re eating and opt for whole foods whenever possible.
