What are Trans Fats and How Should I avoid them?

Trans fats are linked to raise the LDL cholesterol levels in your blood and lower your good (HDL) cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of foods rich intrans fats increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
What foods should I avoid?
Trans fats can exist in any and all foods that you may consume. If the packet of muffin or chips that you are having does not list Trans Fat as an ingredient, check for partially hydrogenated oil. It is the one and the same and detrimental for your health.
Did you know that the very commonly used Vanaspati or Dalda is a Trans fat?
Next time you grab fried foods like Samosas, Bhaturas and vadas from the street, remember that it is fried in repeatedly used oils and may contain fats that are detrimental to your health.
Doughnuts, cookies, crackers, muffins, pies and cakes are examples of foods that may contain trans fat.
How do you control Trans Fat?

• Limit how frequently you eat them.
• Limit commercially fried foods and baked goods made with shortening or partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.
• Use oils like Olive, Canola and Liquid vegetable oils
• Add fresh vegetables and fruits to every meal
• Say NO to products that list Trans Fat on their label
• Reduce the intake of instant meals and frozen food

Be sure to check your lipid profile. Regularly monitoring your total fats will give you an assessment of your cardiac health.