Trans Fat This …. Trans Fat That!!!!!

by Odalis Urena

Margarine, cookies, cakes and pies, buttered popcorn, breads and fries. What do these treats have in common, rather than the fact that they can be used in a riddle? They taste very good and are sold everywhere, you might say, but how about the fact that they contain trans-fatty acids. Man-made molecules called trans-fatty acids are created in an attempt to increase profits and the shelf life of products. Trans-fatty acids are created when liquid unsaturated vegetable oil is hydrogenated, becoming solid fat. These hydrogenated vegetable oils are added to margarine- making it a solid at room temperature, which makes the product easier to spread.

You might say, “It’s just a little cookie with little chocolate chips; it can’t kill me”. Well, think again. Studies show that in the United States alone up, to 30,000 deaths are implicated by the over consumption of not only saturated fats but also trans-fatty acids. When you take in trans-fatty acids you increase your LDL (bad) cholesterol just like saturated fats do, and you decrease your HDL (good) cholesterol. This increases your chances of developing heart disease. Trans-fatty acids promote insulin resistance which increases your chances of developing type II diabetes. Trans-fatty acids also cause your blood vessel walls to stiffen, raising your blood pressure and increasing your chances of a stroke.

Now you may be wondering how to find out if your favorite goodies contain trans-fats. When you are looking at the ingredients on a food label, be sure to put the product back on the shelf if it reads:

“hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated vegetable oil”.

My people, let’s be mindful of what we eat! Make sure you read those labels!

If you would like to set up a Nutritional & Training Consultation or would like health and exercise tips please visit my website at www.odalisurena.com