Tuesday, June 23, 2015

"No Longer Generally Recognized as Safe"


Recently, the FDA made an executive decision to remove artificial trans fats from food and deeming them “no longer generally recognized as safe.”  The effects of trans fats are not new to the health world.  Back in January of 2006, the FDA required trans fat to be listed on the Nutrition Facts label.  This type of fat may increase LDL (bad) cholesterol and lower HDL (good) cholesterol and may also increase cardiovascular disease risk.
Many manufacturers will need to reformulate foods as many of America’s favorite processed foods contain artificial trans fats, the most prominent being partially hydrogenated oils.  These oils have been used to increase “shelf-life and flavor stability” since the 1950s.  Stick margarines, snack foods, baked goods, and coffee creamers are just a few of the items containing partially hydrogenated oils.
The FDA’s goal is to reduce the incidences of fatal heart attacks and coronary heart disease.  Hopefully, in the near future, we will see people realize just how big of a role nutrition plays in prevention of chronic disease.


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