In the world of “Eat This Not That” you may wonder why certain foods are less than healthy and can derail your efforts towards fat loss and better health. Often it’s not the food itself but rather the chemicals that are added to preserve the food or to make it taste better. One such ingredient is hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fat. Some common foods that often contain these types of fats include: margarine, most spreads, many cookies, crackers, ice cream, convenience foods, snack foods, and some breads, etc. Increased consumption of hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fats can lead to the following health issues:
*Hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fats are difficult to digest and stay in the body for a long time
*Excess weight gain independent of excess calorie consumption
*Chronic inflammatory diseases and pain
*Increased LDL (bad cholesterol), decreased HDL (good cholesterol)
*Increased blood clotting and increased risk of coronary artery disease
*Increased development of autoimmune disease
*Increased risk of cancer
*Accelerated aging (increased skin wrinkling)
*Depressed milk fat production in nursing mothers
As much as possible eat organic, natural whole foods that are not processed. READ THE LABEL! Avoid breaded or deep-fried foods at restaurants and stay away from anything that contains hydrogenated fat, partially hydrogenated fat, or shortening. Arm yourself with knowledge about the foods that you eat and you will be one step closer to success at achieving your goals.
By Karen O'Donnell, Personal Trainer at Towson
