What are Trans Fats?
1. The Good, Bad, and Ugly Side of Trans Fat
It seems that every day there is a new food to worry about. One of the
latest is trans fatty acids or trans fat. This is a type of fat that begins
life as polyunsaturated, liquid oil — usually soybean, cottonseed, or corn. The
oil is chemically treated, or hydrogenated, to become hard or saturated. Why
would anyone want to do such a thing? For starters, to cut costs and to extend
the shelf life of some foods.
2. Is this a new discovery?
Actually, the process of hydrogenation is not a new one. It was first
patented in 1903 and has been used increasingly since that time. With the
introduction of Crisco in 1911, Americans began to use trans fat as a less
expensive and more stable alternative to butter. In addition, trans fat extends
the shelf life of commercially prepared foods, such as, bakery goods, breakfast
cereals, health/ energy bars, microwave popcorn, and some frozen foods.
3. Where are trans fats found?
Health Canada estimates that trans fat is in 40% of the food on grocery
store shelves. Trans fat is also ideal for deep fat frying; it withstands high
temperatures without breaking down or becoming rancid, and can be reused. So,
you guessed it: Trans fat is the fat of choice by many restaurants. Even if you
think you are safe from trans fat by staying at home and not eating out, forget
it. Take a look at some of the food labels in your cupboard. Scan the list of
ingredients for ‘partially hydrogenated oil’. There it is! The higher it is
listed in the ingredient list, the more there is in the food.
4. What about safety and labeling?
There is no known safe level of trans fat; therefore, a % Daily Value
on the food label will not be listed. The Institute of Medicine
recommends that consumption of trans fat should be as low as possible.
5. What about the effect of trans fat on diabetes?
At present, there are only a few studies on trans fat and diabetes.
People with diabetes are at a higher risk for heart disease; therefore, it
seems prudent for people with diabetes to heed recommendations to reduce total
fat intake, especially trans fat.
6. Become a trans fat detective
While it may be unrealistic to avoid packaged foods and restaurants, there
are some steps you can take to reduce dietary trans fat. Become a trans fat
label reading detective and compare brands. Industries will respond to consumer
pressure. A prime example is McDonald’s promise to switch from trans fat
cooking oil as well as Nabisco’s Oreos made without trans fat.
7. Start NOW!
Instead of relying on food manufacturers to make healthier choices, you can
start at home. There are trans fat free recipes for foods traditionally made
with trans fat. Remember, you are what you eat so start making some better food
choices in the future!
Important Notice: Information provided is for general
background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis
or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your
physician about any health care questions you may have, especially before
trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to health care
issues.