Try To Avoid Trans Fat

PENNSYLVANIA—A recent study conducted at the University of Pennsylvania and published in The BMJ found that trans fats are associated with an increased risk of death and heart disease risk.


The study pooled data together from 72 previous studies that analyzed the associations of saturated fats and trans fats with the risk of death, heart disease, stroke, and type-2 diabetes.


The team found that trans fat consumption, which are produced industrially from plant oils (margarine, pre-packaged baked goods, and snack foods) were associated with a 34 percent increased risk of death and a 21 percent increased risk of heart disease. It is noted that they could not find any clear associations with consuming saturated fats, which typically come from animal products (meat, egg yolks, butter, and salmon).


The researchers noted that the current dietary guidelines recommend limiting saturated fat consumption to less than 10 percent of daily intake, and limiting trans fat consumption to less than 1% of your daily intake.


According to webMD, the following are healthier alternatives to trans fat:


·         Small amounts of butter, or olive oil is the best alternative

·         Coconut oil

·         Fruits and vegetables


If you are interested in reducing your risk of heart disease and other health problems, you might want to consider eliminating trans fat from your daily diet.


Have a great day.