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Food Basics - The Basics - the goodness of original food... cedele....

Trans Fat

what is trans fat?
Trans fat is vegetable oil that has been treated with hydrogen in order to make it more solid and give it a longer shelf life. Its smoothness and high melting point make it a great medium for creamy fillings in cookies. In a deep-fat fryer, it can take repeated heatings without breaking down.

why is trans fat used?
hypdrogenated fats are widely used in the food industry as they can be heated repeatedly and help products look better and sustain the freshness. They give the food structure, great texture, moisture, flakiness and airiness. Many companies have not exactly found an alternative which tastes just as good and works just as well, and it is used as it is a cheaper option.

how is trans fat bad for you?
There is no healthy level in trans fat and trans fat can clog up the pipes feading the heart and brain, resulting in heart attacks or strokes. It increases low-density lipoprotein or LDL, more commonly known as bad cholesterol, and decreases HDL, the good cholesterol.
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