Fat Type: Trans Fats (AKA trans fatty acids)

Things on nutrition labels to look out for when you are interested in decreasing body fat and weight loss are trans fatty acids. This particular fat is often left unmentioned and I feel there is a need to let others understand exactly what it is and how it affects our bodies. Trans fatty acids are produced by the partial hydrogenation (addition of hydrogen atoms) of vegetable oils and help foods have a longer shelf life. If trans fatty acids are consumed regularly, they can increase the risk of raising your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and even lowering your HDL (good) cholesterol levels. In addition, these fats can wreak havoc on your insulin sensitivity and may also cause one to have hardened arteries and other health problems with their hearts.