hydrogenated oils [aka trans fats]

It's intriguing that the government prohibited partially hydrogenated oils in 2020, yet they still permit the use of hydrogenated oils "when used in moderation." This notion of "moderation" is rather questionable, as it leaves interpretation entirely up to the consumer. Without a clear understanding of what to look for on a label, individuals may unknowingly expose themselves to a toxic load. This discrepancy seems entirely unfair, given the potential health risks involved.

So why are partially hydrogenated oils so dangerous? 

Partial hydrogenation reduces the levels of polyunsaturated oils while also generating trans fats, which increase the risk of heart disease. In 2004, a committee of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determined that, gram for gram, trans fat is even more detrimental to health than saturated fat.

Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health have approximated that trans fat contributes to approximately 50,000 premature heart attack deaths each year. This highlights partially hydrogenated oil as one of the most detrimental ingredients within the food supply.

Despite partially hydrogenated oils were officially banned 4 years ago, you still have to look out for hydrogenated oils. Food producers will say that they utilize hydrogenated oil for food preservation, flavor enhancement, and texture improvement, but we know it is really to their costs.

As per information from the FDA, trans fat has the potential to elevate levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly referred to as "bad cholesterol." Elevated LDL cholesterol levels heighten the risk of heart disease, which stands as the foremost cause of death in the United States. Additionally, insights from the American Heart Association revealed that trans fat can diminish levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as "good cholesterol." This dual effect of increasing LDL cholesterol and reducing HDL cholesterol escalates the risk of individuals developing heart attacks, strokes, and type 2 diabetes.

Here are all the reasons hydrogenated oils still pose health risks:

1. Heart Disease: Trans fats raise levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol while lowering levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

2. Inflammation: Consumption of hydrogenated oils can lead to increased inflammation in the body, which is linked to various chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.

3. Insulin Resistance: Trans fats may contribute to insulin resistance, a condition where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

4. Obesity: Trans fats are associated with weight gain and abdominal obesity, which are risk factors for various metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease.

5. Liver Dysfunction: Consumption of hydrogenated oils has been linked to liver dysfunction, including fatty liver disease and liver inflammation.

6. Cancer: Some studies suggest that trans fats may increase the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer and colorectal cancer.

7. Impaired Brain Function: Trans fats may impair cognitive function and increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease.

Given these health risks, it's advisable completely avoid consumption of foods containing hydrogenated oils. Instead, opt for healthier fats such as olive oil, avocado oil, and nuts, which can help protect against heart disease and improve overall health.

WARNING 

Don't be tricked into swapping hydrogenated oils for lesser quality oils such as cottonseed oil, canola oil, peanut oil, corn oil and soybean oil. Remember, many food manufactures are still trying to reduce costs, and these aren't healthy either!