1. Medico Media Avoiding Trans Fats Created By : Dr. Meena Shah

2. Avoid Trans Fats What are trans fatty acids? Fatty acids are the building blocks of fat Trans fatty acids have a different shape or structure than other fatty acids

3. Avoid Trans Fats What are trans fatty acids? Very few trans fatty acids occur naturally in animal products They are formed when vegetable oils are chemically altered in the process of partial hydrogenation

4. What are trans fatty acids? They have a different structure They behave differently in body than other types of fatty acids.

5. How does trans fat affect the body? Trans fat has been associated with an increased risk for coronary heart disease A high intake of trans fat seems to increase both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels

6. How does trans fat affect the body? They lower HDL (good) cholesterol levels Opposite of your goals for a healthy heart.

7. What changes to make? Only safe level of trans fat intake is zero. It is impractical to eliminate all trans fat from our diets Reduce your intake as much as possible

8. What changes to make? Manufacturers have to label foods for trans fat One way to avoid trans fats is to look at the ingredient list on packaged foods Make sure that the words “partially hydrogenated” are not there.

9. Where are trans fatty acids found? Foods that have partially hydrogenated oils have the most trans fat. Partially hydrogenated oils are often found in : Margarines Baked goods Fast food Cookies Crackers Chips Kharis Donuts, and many fried foods.

10. What should I eat instead? Eat a diet made up of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes (beans and peas). Avoid, or at least reduce, your intake of foods made with partially hydrogenated oils.

11. What should I eat instead? If you must have margarine, look for the new varieties that are labeled trans fat free. Try using nut butters or 100% fruit spreads instead of margarine on breads.