All for what is best for the nutrition and health of Filipinos. This, indeed, will be one of the preventive health milestones that we can achieve, as we meaningfully celebrate the Heart Month!
Here are 5 points that you need to know about TRANS FATS and YOUR HEALTH:
1. What is trans fat?
Trans fat is a type of fat that is often produced during food processing by food manufacturers that involves the addition of hydrogen to vegetable oil to help prolong its shelf life. This process is called “hydrogenation”, which turns oil in liquid form into solid form. Examples of oils that have been “hydrogenated” are margarine and vegetable shortening. These types of oils are cheaper and less likely to spoil.
2. Why should we be concerned?
Trans fat has no known health benefits, and is harmful to your heart and blood vessels. When regularly consumed, it contributes to an increase in LDL cholesterol (commonly known as “bad cholesterol”) and decrease in HDL cholesterol or “good cholesterol.” This can have a significant impact on heart health, and may increase the risk of heart disease.
In the Philippines, cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease remain to be the leading cause of death, according to DOH data. Recent FNRI-DOST survey shows a significant percentage of the adult population with dyslipidemia or high levels of fats, especially bad cholesterol, in the blood.
3. Where can we find trans fats?
Traces of naturally occurring trans-fat may come from some animal products such as meat and dairy food from ruminant animals, such as cows and goats. Industrially-produced trans fat is often found in deep-fried food items; highly processed baked goods (such as cakes, cookies, biscuits, pies, donuts, pizza, etc), margarine, spreads, instant foods, non-dairy coffee creamer, etc. Always check the food labels. Trans fat usually comes as partially hydrogenated oil or PHO in the ingredient list.
4. Are all types of fat bad?
No. Healthy types of fats are essential to our nutrition and health. Ideally, our diet should comprise a variety of plant-based oils, with substantial source of omega 3 fatty acids. Some examples of plant based oils that have proven dietary benefits include coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, nut-based oil and, flaxseed oil.
5. What is PSND’s position on this and what has been done?
As PSND continues its efforts to educate the public regarding the harmful effects of trans fats, while emphasizing options for healthier fat sources; PSND joins other major Professional Nutrition Organizations, to support the enactment of The Trans Fats Free Philippines Bill banning the use of trans fats in processed food items in the country. PSND believes that while there are many other factors that need to be improved in the diet to prevent cardiovascular diseases and related complications, removing industrially-produced trans fats in the diet, as mandated by the TFFP Bill, will immensely impact the Filipino diet.
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