Hydrogenated fats are essentially trans-fatty acids and are created during the manufacturing process. Basically, hydrogenation occurs when hydrogen units are added to polyunsaturated fatty acids to help keep them solid at room temperature and to extend shelf life. Common examples of foods that have hydrogenated fats in them include certain margarines, commercially prepared baked products and many fried foods.
The velvety smooth texture of hydrogenated fats has made them a popular choice in many food products, as well as its economical price and high melting point. It literally is the perfect chemical substance to help the commercial food industry; however, the havoc it wreaks on the human body is enormous.
Hydrogenated fats are extremely unhealthy and pose serious health risks. Numerous studies have been performed that state that these fats are just as dangerous, if not more so, than saturated fats. Like saturated fats, hydrogenated fats suppress levels of HDL cholesterol, which is the good kind, while increasing LDL cholesterol, obviously the bad kind, along with cholesterol and triglyceride blood levels. This means that your cardiovascular system is constantly being pushed to work harder, and can lead to increased risks of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Hydrogenated fats have been shown to promote the development of diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease, a neurological disorder affecting long and short term memory; diabetes, a disorder that affects or hinders insulin production; infertility in women; liver failure; specific cancers, including prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women; and of course, obesity.
Luckily for consumers, in 2006 the FDA took the initiative to include trans-fat content on the nutritional labels of most foods and dietary supplements. This system became mandatory to help consumers determine their intake of hydrogenated fats to keep the health risks down. In addition, many states are working on campaigns to reduce and/or eliminate these fats from being used as primary fat sources in food establishments.
There are various alternatives that can be used in place of hydrogenated oils such as coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, and sunflower oil. Even real butter is a better alternative to hydrogenated margarines. Do not be fooled by claims of partially hydrogenated fats being healthier for you - they still have all the negative effects that are harmful to your body.
Reduce and eliminate the amount of hydrogenated oils you eat on a day to day basis and you will feel a difference in your health almost immediately.
