What Are Trans Fats And How Should I Avoid Them?

Trans-fats are linked to raise the LDL cholesterol levels in your blood and lower your good (HDL) cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of foods rich in trans fats increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

What foods should I avoid?

Trans fats is found in most processed food that we eat. If the packet of muffin or chips that you are eating does not list ‘trans fat’ as an ingredient, check for the words ‘partially hydrogenated oil.’ It is the same thing and is detrimental to your health.

Did you know that the very commonly used ‘Vanaspati’ or ‘Dalda’ is rich in trans fat?

Next time you eat fried snacks like samosas, bhaturas and vadas from the street, remember that it is fried in oil that is being re-used making it unhealthy. Commercially produced doughnuts, cookies, crackers, muffins, pies and cakes are examples of foods that may contain trans fat.

How do you control Trans Fat?

• Limit how frequently you eat them.
• Limit commercially fried foods and baked goods made with shortening or partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.
• Use oils like Olive, Canola and Liquid vegetable oils
• Add fresh vegetables and fruits to every meal
• Say NO to products that list Trans Fat on their label
• Reduce the intake of instant meals and frozen food