Know Your Trans Fats

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http://www.lasvegasnow.com/Global/story.asp?S=5473626

 

New York City health officials have proposed a complete ban on the use of artificial trans fats, or hydrogenated oils in food establishments.

The ingredient is commonly used to make baked goods and for deep-fried foods. The Eye on Health team spoke with a local expert who says the ban is not a good idea.

Professor Carolyn Leontos is a nutrition specialist with the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension.

She says the ingredient was originally added as a stabilizer, contributing to a longer shelf life.

Carolyn Leontos said, "No one had any idea that trans-fatty acids would contribute to heart disease. So it was not a sinister plot by any means. It's just one of those kinds of things that you did what you thought was best at the time. And then time proved it wasn't the best thing to do. "

It's now believed that hydrogenated fats tend to raise LDL cholesterol levels thereby increasing the risk of heart disease. But Leontos does not support the notion of an outright ban.

"I have some question about whether or not it realistic or necessarily advisable to ban food items. One of the things with trans-fatty acids is that we know that they're not a desirable form of fat. And food manufacturers are making a valiant effort to remove them from many, many foods," Leontos continued.

As a marketing tool, some product-makers highlight the fact that they don't use trans fats.

Leontos says, in the bigger picture, portion size is just as much to blame for diet-related health problems.

She said, "And this is again, an American choice. People can decide whether they're going to have the small, medium or large. And for most of America, the small is the appropriate size.

Leontos says the two key words in a healthy diet are variety and moderation, even if some foods on your list contain artificial trans fats. Although, filling up on fresh fruits and veggies is even better.

Send your feedback to Medical Producer Rick Andrews at randrews

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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