Image via WikipediaGovernor Arnold Schwarzenegger has terminated trans-fats in California from 2010, and California becomes the first state in the United States to do so. Several cities have already banned trans-fats. Among these are Seattle, New York City, and Philadelphia.
The Terminator is reported to have stated that the new legislation represents, “a strong step towards creating a healthier future”.
Trans-fats are chemically changed vegetable oils which are linked to coronary heart disease. The process called hydrogenation solidifies liquid oil enabling it to be used in the manufacture of margarine, and shorts, and is also used in frying. When added to many fried and baked foods, trans-fats extend their shelf life.
 photo credit: peterdconroy |
It would appear that the average American eats 4 1/2 pounds approximately of trans-fats every year according to the US Food and Drug Administration. It is likely the figure is representative of the public in other countries too.
Trans-fats increase the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood. Hence their link to coronary heart disease. A review by the New England Journal of medicine in 2006 suggested that eliminating trans-fats could prevent as much as between 5% and 19% of heart attacks and related deaths every year. Research appears to show that there is no safe level of consumption, and as trans-fats have no nutritional value; the ban by a Governor Schwarzenegger is welcome news.
Tags: Nutrition, cholesterol, heart disease, Health, Food, Eating, Food and Drug Administration, bad cholesterol, governor arnold schwarzenegger, trans fats, heart attacks, vegetable oils, california
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