Through the years, there've been many health studies on the benefits of a healthy diet that is low in fat and sugar and high in protein and fiber.
One study that's changing the dietary habits of millions of Americans is the study on the harmful effects of trans fats found in vegetable oils.
What's Wrong With Vegetable Oils?
Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils contain high levels of trans fat, an unhealthy substance known to have health risks. Trans fat makes foods taste good and last longer on grocery shelves, but it's not healthy. Trans fats in your diet can have negative effects on your body. For example, it can weaken your immune system and increase risks of inflammation within your body as well as raise your blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Although many manufacturers have reduced or eliminated trans fats in certain foods, they're still found in many foods and products that contain partially hydrogenated vegetable oils: fried foods and baked goods; margarines; cake mixes and frostings; packaged snacks and cookies; pancake and waffle mixes; certain brands of ice cream; microwave popcorn; non-dairy creamers; and some canned and frozen foods. To avoid harmful trans fats in over-the-counter food products, read food labels carefully.
If you pick up a food product and the food label says the product is trans fat free of has 0 percent trans fat, that’s not necessarily true. Go one step further for the truth and look at the ingredients. Food manufacturers can make a product’s serving size whatever they want. One serving size may not contain more than 1 gram of trans fat; however, multiple serving sizes may. It’s important to note that even a small amount of trans fat is unhealthy.
Bottom line: Don’t just read the food label or product label.
How Can I Replace Trans Fat In My Diet?
Eat fewer processed and packaged foods. These foods typically contain partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. Although changing your diet to more fresh foods, fruits and vegetables may be difficult at first, you'll be healthier in the long run. Once your body adjusts to a healthier diet, you'll find that you have increased energy levels, better sleep patterns and increased focus and mental clarity.
Substitute unhealthy cooking oils for healthier options. Cooking oils can be healthy or unhealthy, depending on the type of oil and how much you use. Using healthier alternatives such as extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil is a great place to start. To learn more about healthy lifestyle choices, contact us at Matrix Age Management in Amarillo. We provide a customized, proactive approach to aging and health for our patients.
