Hydrogenated fats or trans fats are fats that are generated through a chemical process. This chemical process is called “hydrogenation.” and consists of adding hydrogen to certain ingredients that naturally contain fats in a liquid state when they are at a very high temperature so that they become solid.

This causes the unsaturated fats that are necessary and healthy for our body to become saturated fats that are artificial, harmful and prevent us from having a balanced diet.

These fats improve the properties of the food, mainly its flavor and the conservation of the product.

What is the danger of consuming hydrogenated fats?

• • Increase the level of lipoproteins low density, that is, they increase bad cholesterol, harming the circulatory system and heart.

• • They contribute to increase triglycerides (fat found in the blood) causing cardiovascular diseases and acute pancreatitis.

• They increase the probability of developing type 2 diabetes, causing the insulin hormone to behave abnormally.

In what foods can we find hydrogenated fats?

We can find this type of fat mainly in processed foods, industrial pastries, pre-cooked dishes, etc…

Consume 5 g. of hydrogenated fats per day is considered dangerous and very harmful to our health.

How can I tell if a food contains hydrogenated fats?

The first thing you should do is pay close attention when reading its labeling.

In case the food contains more than 0.5 g. of hydrogenated fats, it is mandatory that they appear detailed on their labeling. Otherwise, your declaration is not necessary.

From Luis Gil We recommend that you eat a healthy and balanced diet, limiting or avoiding the consumption of this type of food. Staying away from hydrogenated fats does not mean staying away from eating this type of food, but changing them for others made in a way that is more beneficial for your body.