TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – Trans fat once commonly used in the food industry because they provided a more stable and longer-lasting fat source than natural fats. Due to these health concerns, many health authorities and regulatory bodies have taken measures to limit or ban the use of trans fats in food products.
As a result, there has been a significant reduction in the consumption of trans fats in many countries. As defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), this substance are a form of fats that are created through the process of hydrogenation. The process begins by converting liquid vegetable oil into solid fat through the addition of hydrogen.
Advertisement
Commonly utilized in food production to enhance shelf life and product stability, trans fats can also be naturally found in small amounts in meat and dairy products.
Health Impacts
1. Elevated LDL Cholesterol (Bad Cholesterol)
Consumption of trans fats can increase levels of LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein), commonly known as bad cholesterol. Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol can escalate the risk of heart disease and vascular issues.
2. Decreased HDL Cholesterol (Good Cholesterol)
Trans fats can also reduce levels of HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein) or good cholesterol. HDL cholesterol plays a crucial role in cleaning cholesterol from blood vessels, so a decrease in HDL levels can heighten the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
3. Increased Risk of Heart Disease
Excessive consumption of trans fats has been linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease. Accumulation of cholesterol in blood vessels can lead to narrowing and plaque formation, ultimately resulting in heart attacks.
4. Inflammation and Insulin Resistance
Some studies suggest that consuming trans fats can cause inflammation in the body and increase the risk of insulin resistance, contributing to the development of type 2 diabetes.
Avoiding Trans Fats
To steer clear of consuming trans fats, consider the following steps:
1. Check Nutrition Labels
When purchasing processed foods, scrutinize the nutrition label to identify the amount of trans fats. Avoid products containing "hydrogenated trans fats" or "hydrogenated oil" in the ingredient list.
2. Choose Fresh and Natural Foods
Fresh and natural foods generally have lower trans fat levels compared to processed foods. Opt for minimally processed foods to reduce trans fat intake.
3. Use Healthy Vegetable Oils
Opt for healthy vegetable oils, such as olive oil or canola oil, as alternatives to replace oils containing trans fats.
4. Avoid Fast Food
Fast food often contains high levels of trans fats. Whenever possible, avoid consuming fast food or choose healthier options.
By being vigilant, consistent, and health-conscious, individuals can take steps to minimize their intake of trans fats, promoting better cardiovascular health and overall well-being. (*)
**) Ikuti berita terbaru TIMES Indonesia di Google News klik link ini dan jangan lupa di follow.
| Editor | : Khodijah Siti |
| Publisher | : Sofyan Saqi Futaki |
