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What Are Trans Fats? Are They Bad?

Trans fat is a type of dietary fat. They are created artificially through hydrogenation and are associated with various health risks.

Trans fats increase LDL (Bad) cholesterol and decrease HDL (Good) cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Trans fats can decrease insulin sensitivity, potentially contributing to diabetes development.

Trans fats may damage blood vessels and impair your vascular health.

Trans fats can promote inflammation in the body, which leads to numerous chronic diseases.

Trans fats are found in partially hydrogenated oils often used in fried and processed foods.

To avoid trans fats, read food labels, choose foods without hydrogenated oils, and opt for whole, unprocessed foods.

In a healthy diet, 20-35% of daily calories should come from fat, with saturated fat limited to less than 10% of total calorie intake.

Found in olive, peanut, and canola oils — it is a healthier option than saturated fat. Nuts, fish, and other foods rich in unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids are good sources of healthy fats.