JOPLIN, MO.--- From saturated fat to unsaturated and transfat - there's a lot to keep straight on food labels these days. The FDA is considering making some changes to what can go into your next snack. Details in tonight's Freeman Medical Focus.
"Initially, the food manufacturers loved these transfats because they did extend the shelf life, improved the flavor of foods. As time passed, we found that these transfats are not very healthy for us," said Heather Boline, Freeman Dietitian.
In fact, the Food and Drug Administration is concerned about its impact on our long term health.
"We find a lot of evidence that consuming transfats actually raises our blood levels of bad cholesterol, the ldl cholesterol. So now the FDA is looking to ban transfats to improve the health of Americans by cutting their risk for heart disease and stroke," said Boline.
Even food that doesn't lists zero transfats could be a problem.
"Going down to the ingredients list, look for the words hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils because the FDA only requires a manufacturer to list transfats if they're over half a gram," said Boline.
Freeman Dietitian Heather Boline says if you must eat something with transfats, keep the portions small.
"This really isn't one of those foods that, 'oh if you eat it in moderation, you'll be okay.' Because transfats we know are not good for you. In fact, they recommend eating under two grams of transfats a day," said Boline.
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