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Natural fatty acids and trans fatty acids: What is the difference between them
In our daily lives, fatty acids are often involved in discussions about healthy eating and cardiovascular disease. Especially the comparison between "natural fatty acids" and "trans fatty acids", which not only affects our dietary choices, but also affects the health of our body. So, what is the difference between the two? This article will give you an in-depth look at the scientific background on these fatty acids and their effects on health.
Definition of fatty acids
Fatty acids are organic acids with a fatty acid radical, whose chemical structure consists of a long carbon chain. Depending on the degree of saturation of the carbon chain, fatty acids can be divided into saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids. In my country's food culture, natural fatty acids mainly come from plant and animal fats, while trans fatty acids mostly come from the hydrogenation reaction of vegetable oils in processed foods.
Fatty acids from natural sources
Natural fatty acids generally refer to those fatty acids that have not been processed and retain their natural structure. For example, oleic acid in olive oil is a monounsaturated fatty acid, which is particularly beneficial for cardiovascular health. These fatty acids promote good cholesterol levels in the body and assist in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
"Natural fatty acids have many health benefits, but when we consume too much trans fatty acids, they may lead to cardiovascular disease."
The harm of trans fatty acids
Trans fatty acids are mainly produced through the hydrogenation process. This process turns the originally liquid vegetable oil into a solid state, thereby extending the shelf life of food, but it brings health risks. For the human body, consuming too much trans fatty acids will increase the level of bad cholesterol (LDL) and lower the level of good cholesterol (HDL), increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Physiological roles of fatty acids
In physiology, fatty acids play multiple roles. They are not only a source of energy, but also participate in the composition of cell membrane structure. Unsaturated fatty acids, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6, are particularly important for brain function and heart health.
How to identify fatty acid types
Understanding the types of fatty acids in your food is important to a healthy diet. Natural products such as nuts, fish and vegetable oils are often rich in fatty acids that are beneficial to the body, while most processed foods are high in trans fatty acids. As consumers, we need to learn to read product labels and choose foods that are low in trans fatty acids.
ConclusionNatural fatty acids and trans fatty acids differ greatly in their sources, structures, and effects on health. We should be more conscious in choosing fatty acids from natural sources to promote good health. So, how do you adjust your diet to reduce your intake of trans fats?
