In 2004 I deleted all processed foods containing trans fats from my grocery shopping list. And there are several good reasons why:
First of all, what is a trans fat?
Trans fats are created when man alters a liquid oil into a solid by the process of hydrogenation which causes a chemical change in the oil. Two examples are shortening and margarine. Trans-fats are also caused by heating unstable vegetable oils to a high temperature.
When first introduced to the food industry trans fats were in high demand because they extended shelf life and helped give food a chewy texture. But they also altered God’s perfect design for the health of our bodies.
Why are they so dangerous?
When trans fats are consumed, like any other fat, they become part of the outer lining of our cell membranes. But because of their chemical alteration, they leave the cell vulnerable to attack and deterioration. They can also raise bad cholesterol, acting the same as bacon grease in a drain. In fact, it’s believed that trans fats, instead of all saturated fat, have been the culprit for numerous major diseases all along.
For this reason, they’re being looked at as one of the biggest health disaster of our time. And I’m sure you’ve seen the warning labels against trans fats on many food items in the grocery stores. That’s because they may lead to arthritis, cancer, Crohn’s disease, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease and acne, just to name a few of the common ailments many Americans face.
Two food items almost certainly containing trans fats are margarine and shortening. Other food items which may contain trans fats include french fries, potato chips, doughnuts, and some cake mixes just to name a few.
Unfortunately, it appears that the FDA has left a loophole for labeling requirements when it comes to trans fast. Foods with less than .5 grams of trans fats (which has been determined to be a “safe” level) can be labeled as having 0 trans fats. So imagine unknowingly consuming 5 individual products that actually contain .5 grams (even though the label reads 0 trans fats). You would actually be consuming 2.5 grams, and that puts you well over the healthy limit!
That’s why I read all labels when I go grocery shopping.
But I still love fat!
The truth is, fat gives food an amazing flavor and makes you feel full. And unlike sugar and refined carbs (which cause you to store fat) healthy fats actually burn fat. So when you eat the right kinds of fat it can help improve your health, curbs hunger, prevent cravings, burn calories, promote brain health, and fight disease!! Who wouldn’t want all of that?
So what fats do I consume on a regular basis?
If you’re already a subscriber, you’re one step ahead due to the fact that you have already received my “7 Steps to Better Health” which includes a list of the 5 healthy fats I consume on a regular basis.
If you’re not a subscriber, fill out the form below and you will receive my 7 steps right to your inbox! It’s that easy to begin your journey toward delicious healthy eating – including being able to eat delicious, healthy, hunger-curbing fats!
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If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you!
