Trans-fats especially hydrogenated fat is very commonly used in bakeries, restaurants, junk food joints and in packed foods for its better stability and taste. You may get it   even when you buy a Biriyani Kit without asking for it. People use it without knowing the serious health problems that it could lead to high cholesterol level in the blood when taken regularly in high quantity. Several countries (e.g., Denmark, Switzerland, and Canada and places like California, New York City, Baltimore, and Montgomery County) are restricted the use of trans fats in food.US FDA comments that partially hydrogenated oils are not safe in human food.

           Hydrogenated or trans fats tend to remain "stuck" in blood circulation, becoming oxidized and  contributing significantly to an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and also not ruling out the possibility of some cancer. Trans fats -increases LDL and decreases HDL, which ideally should be other way round.

           There are many write ups world-wide to avoid hydrogenated fats in food during pregnancy as this sometimes may lead to Preeclampsia (a condition that increases the blood pressure of the mother).  If it is not treated properly, could lead to serious conditions to both mother and child. Better to avoid bakery foods, junk foods, Biriyani etc since hydrogenated fat is very   commonly used in these foods. Now a days packed foods are available with labeling of “No trans-fats inside “. When you buy food products please ensure that. The allowed trans-fat in food is 0%.

By Biniya baby.MSc Nutrition and dietetics.WELLNESS DIET