What are trans fats, and why are they considered harmful?

Trans fats are artificially created fats that result from the hydrogenation process, in which hydrogen is added to liquid vegetable oils to make them more solid. This process not only helps improve the shelf life and texture of processed foods but also alters the structure of the fat, making them harmful to health.

Trans fats are particularly concerning because they have been shown to increase levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad cholesterol," while simultaneously lowering levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as "good cholesterol." This unfavorable shift in cholesterol levels elevates the risk of heart disease, as high LDL levels contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis.

Unlike beneficial fats that play crucial roles in bodily functions, such as providing essential fatty acids or supporting hormone production, trans fats do not offer any health benefits and are widely recognized for their detrimental effects on cardiovascular health.