Trans Fat

So what are trans fats? They are fats in processed foods. Eating foods that contain trans fats is a health risk because trans fatty acids can raise your LDL ("bad") cholesterol and lower your HDL ("good") cholesterol. Until very recently, food manufacturers were not required to list the amount of trans fats on food labels. In early July 2007, regulations changed. As a result, you soon will notice that food labels include the exact amount of trans fats in processed foods. Even if the label says the product is low-fat, it can contain trans fat. The following list shows the top 10 foods containing trans fats.

The Top 10 "Trans Fat" Foods:
1. Spreads. Margarine contains both trans fats and saturated fats, both of which can lead to heart disease.
2. Packaged Foods. Favorites such as cake mixes contain generally have several grams of trans fat per serving.
3. Soups. Ramen noodles and soup cups contain very high levels of trans fat.
4. Fast Food. Those beloved fries and other crunchy foods are deep-fried in partially hydrogenated oil.
5. Frozen Food. From frozen pies to pot pies to breaded fish sticks, frozen foods generally contain trans fat.
6. Baked Goods. Commercially baked products contain more trans fats than any other foods. Items such as doughnuts, cookies and cakes.
7. Chips and Crackers. That crispy texture comes from shortening. Even reduced fat brands may contain trans fat.
8. Breakfast Food. Cereals and energy bars often contain trans fats, even if the labels claim to be "healthy."
9. Cookies and Candy. Check the labels for the fat content.
10. Toppings and Dips. Flavored coffees, nondairy creamers, whipped toppings, gravy mixes and salad dressings typically contain trans fat.