What are trans-fatty acids, and how do they influence health?

Answer 1

In nature, most unsaturated fatty acids are cis-fatty acids—meaning that the hydrogen atoms next to the double bonds are on the same side of the carbon chain. Only a few fatty acids in nature (notably a small percentage of those found in milk and meat products) are trans-fatty acids—meaning that the hydrogen atoms next to the double bonds are on opposite sides of the carbon chain. These arrangements result in different configurations for the fatty acids, and this difference affects function: in the body, trans-fatty acids behave more like saturated fats, increasing blood cholesterol and the risk of heart disease. Researchers are trying to determine whether the health effects of naturally occurring trans fats differ from those of commercially created trans fats. In any case, the important distinction is that intake of naturally occurring trans-fatty acids is typically low. At current levels of consumption, naturally occurring trans fats are unlikely to have adverse effects on blood lipids. The naturally occurring trans-fatty acid conjugated linoleic acid may even have health benefits.