Health Hazards of Trans Fat

There is a huge concern regarding the presence of TFA in the processed, snack and junk foods owing to its adverse effects on health.

Studies have shown that consumption of TFAs is linked to various lifestyle-related diseases.

Obesity

TFA consumption promotes accumulation of abdominal fat causing an increase in waist circumference along with weight gain. This is responsible for disorders like metabolic syndrome leading to insulin resistance and diabetes. There may be fat deposition in the liver too.

Heart disease

Research has proved that TFA (Trans Fatty Acid) consumption results in high LDL (bad cholesterol) levels and low HDL (good cholesterol) levels. TFA also promotes systemic inflammation, increasing the levels of C-reactive protein which leads to thickening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) and heart attacks.

Diabetes

Trans fats increase insulin resistance and are linked to a greater risk of type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance is also associated with obesity, cardiovascular risk factors, dyslipidemia, hypertension and subsequently, metabolic syndrome.

Infertility

TFAs increase the risk of infertility. They may have an adverse effect on the growth of the fetus by interfering with essential fatty acid metabolism.

Depression and aggression

Studies have related increased TFA consumption to developing depression and aggression in the long term.