Trans fatty acids are bad for your health and can increase your risk of developing a number of serious diseases, including stroke, heart disease and diabetes. Despite this, trans fatty acids (TFAs) exist in many everyday foods and creep into our diets more often than you might think! In this article, we offer you a comprehensive guide to the 8 most common sources of TFAs in our diet. Read on if you want an easy-to-follow guide to help you identify these sneaky little buggers!
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Margarine and spreads:
Margarine and spreads are among the best-known sources of trans fats. These products are made with partially hydrogenated oils, which have been modified to extend shelf life and stability. This process also results in a higher content of trans fatty acids in these foods. Trans fats from these sources may increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other health problems.
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Baked goods:
Many types of baked goods contain trans fatty acids due to the use of partially hydrogenated vegetable oils which help retain their freshness longer. Donuts, croissants, cakes, cookies, crackers and even some breads can contain trans fatty acids. Eating these types of pastries on a regular basis can put you at risk for cardiovascular disease and other health problems associated with high cholesterol.
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Processed snacks:
Processed snacks such as chips, microwave popcorn or corn chips often contain trans fatty acids due to the addition of partially hydrogenated oil during production processes. Studies have shown that regular consumption of fried snacks significantly increases the risk of obesity as well as cardiovascular problems such as strokes or heart attacks, due to their high saturated fat content associated with the presence of trans fatty acids.
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Fried foods:
Fried foods, such as French fries or chicken breasts, are usually cooked in partially hydrogenated oils, which allows them to stay crispy longer while increasing their shelf life. However, it also increases their trans fatty acid content, which puts you at increased risk of many diseases if you consume them regularly.
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Frozen pizzas:
Frozen pizzas also contain high amounts of trans fatty acids thanks to the addition of partially hydrogenated vegetable oil used during the production and storage processes which allows the quality of the product to be maintained for longer periods without it doesn’t spoil quickly due to freezing temperatures, but they carry multiple risks when consumed regularly over time, such as an increased risk of diabetes, hypertension, and heart problems, among others….
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Chilled dough:
Chilled doughs such as chilled cookies or cinnamon rolls are processed with ingredients that include partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. Which results in a higher content of unhealthy trans fats per serving than regular homemade versions. Frequent consumption can increase your LDL cholesterol levels while having a negative effect on your blood sugar if you already have complications from diabetes or insulin resistance.
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Coffee creamer and non-dairy creamer:
Coffee creamers and non-dairy creamers are made using various chemicals such as emulsifiers (including mono-diglycerides) derived from partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, which give them a creamy texture, but make them rich in unhealthy trans fats. Regular consumption can lead to an increase in overall calorie intake, which can lead to weight gain if not accompanied by physical exercise or a balanced diet on a daily basis.
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Packaged peanut butter and jams:
Like other packaged foods, peanut butter and jar jams also contain small amounts of unhealthy trans fats from the addition of stabilizers such as mono-diglycerides during production processes. Homemade versions require no additional chemicals other than salt. Which are healthier options when you regularly buy these types of items without having to worry about the potential risks associated with increasing your intake of unhealthy trans fats over time.
