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Written by Linda H. Lamb, McClatchy-Tribune
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Friday, 08 December 2006 |
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 So, Colonel Sanders’ people at Kentucky Fried Chicken are phasing out the use of trans fats. Should you do the same?
It’s hard to find an authority on nutrition who regards trans fats as anything but finger-lickin’ bad. Earlier this year, the Food and Drug Administration required trans fats to be listed on nutrition labels, citing studies linking consumption of trans fats to increased risk of heart disease.
Some restaurants like KFC are phasing out trans fats and some products proudly put “0 trans fats!” on their packaging. New York City’s health board has proposed a citywide ban on the use of trans fats in restaurants.
Sure, you should try to avoid trans fats.
But, it’s important to remember that avoiding trans fats is just one part of a healthy lifestyle, said Larry Durstine, an exercise physiologist at the University of South Carolina.
He said trans fat prevalence in processed foods reflects Americans’ desire for quick and super-convenient meals.
“If you want to reduce your disease risk, you have to pay attention to details,” he said. “You have to eat well — more natural foods, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits — and exercise and reduce your stress.”
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Questions and answers about trans fats, with information from the FDA:
How are trans fats different from other fats?
Some dietary fat is essential. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are good for you in moderation. But trans fats and saturated fats raise LDL or “bad” cholesterol, which can clog blood vessels and increase the risk for cardiovascular disease.
Trans fats are especially harmful because they lower your HDL or “good” cholesterol as well.
Do trans fats occur naturally?
Yes, in small amounts of some meat and dairy. Mainly, trans fat is produced by pumping hydrogen into vegetable oil, the “partially hydrogenated” oil in ingredients lists.
What foods contain trans fats?
Vegetable shortenings, some margarines, fried foods, and many baked foods such as pies, cakes, cookies, breads, crackers and other snacks.
How can I avoid It?
Read nutrition labels, choosing foods with lower saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol. Good alternatives: olive, canola, soybean, corn and sunflower oils.
To reduce total fat and cholesterol
Eat more fish and less meat; limit organ meats and egg yolks; choose fat-free or 1 percent dairy products such as milk; remove skin from poultry; and choose whole-grain foods.
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ON THE WEB
www.americanheart.org
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