| On the other hand, bad fats can cause serious adverse
health consequences. Bad fats are found in saturated fats present in meat
and dairy products and, perhaps the worst, in artificially-produced trans
fatty acids (known as partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated oils). Bad fats
cause an inflammatory response in the body and have been linked to diseases
such as arthritis, PMS and cardiovascular disease. Good fats, however, have
an anti-inflammatory effect upon the body. Research shows that most
Americans consume too many saturated fats and hydrogenated oils, and do not
consume enough essential fatty acids.
People can cut down on bad fats by lowering consumption of meat, dairy
and egg products. Equally, if not more important, is to stop eating foods
made with partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated oils. Hydrogenated oils are
chemically processed by taking an unsaturated oil such as corn or soybean
oil and adding hydrogen to it, which causes the oil to become more solid at
room temperature. Manufacturers are reluctant to stop using hydrogenated
oils because they extend the shelf life of their products. The human body
does not react well to artificially saturated oils and they should be
avoided. In fact, hydrogenated oils have been shown to raise “bad” (LDL)
cholesterol while lowering “good” (HDL) cholesterol.
While adults need to reduce overall fat consumption to a healthy level,
children need at least 30% fat in their diets. The majority of fat intake
for adults and children alike should be comprised of good fats. This can be
accomplished by eating food such as salads made with flaxseed oil, nuts and
seeds, vegetables sautéed in olive or canola oil, avocados and fish. |