Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Trans-Fats: Why it's bad

In the United Kingdom, health experts call to ban trans-fats from all foods because of the risk it poses to health. Trans-fats are usually found in cakes, junk foods, margarines, animal fats, processed foods and fast foods like Hamburger, Burger Steak and French fries.

There are several research studies conducted confirming the harmful effects of trans-fats to everyone's health. When buying cooking oils or any foods in the supermarket, check always the labels/nutritional facts if it contains Trans-fats.

The only benefit trans-fats give to food is the "shelf-life" meaning the long period in which the item could last, but no nutritional value at all. Trans-fats are similar to saturated fats that raise blood cholesterol levels which increase the risk of coronary heart disease and hypertension. It also triggers obesity. 

What are Trans-Fats:
  • They are partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, turning oily foods into semi-solid foods
  • Lard and Tallow also known as animal fats and oils
  • Used to extend the shelf-life of products but no nutritional value
  • Can raise level of bad cholesterol
  • Trigger cancer, cardiovascular diseases, obesity and other chronic illnesses

People are admonished by health experts to choose polyunsaturated/monounsaturated fats or oils like the following:

  • Olive oil
  • Canola oil
  • Sunflower oil
  • Virgin Coconut oil
Source: BBC news health

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