4. Avoid Sources of Trans-Saturated Fats
Healthy fats have a positive health effect on the body. However, there are bad fat sources that detrimentally affect cardiovascular and neurological health. Unsaturated fats that undergo hydrogenation are known as trans-saturated fatty acids. Hydrogenating oils improves stability and even distribution of fat in cooking oil. Fat sources such as vegetable oils are hydrogenated
Shortenings, margarine, and cooking oils contain hydrogenated oils.
Processed foods such as pastries, candy, and fast food contain trans-saturated fats to improve texture and mouthfeel. Unfortunately, the body does not handle trans fats in the same manner as unsaturated fat sources. Regularly consuming trans fats in your diet increases total triglyceride count (cholesterol levels) and LDL while decreasing HDL.
Eating trans fats can decrease HDL levels by as much as 20%, creating a lipoprotein balance that presents significant health risks. A global study of health behavior estimated trans-saturated fats could be responsible for up to 8% of deaths from cardiovascular disease. Avoid any food labels that state the product contains “partially hydrogenated” oil.