Which foods commonly contain trans fats?

Trans fats, despite being a type of unsaturated fat, behave more like saturated fats due to their chemical structure. They increase the risk of heart disease by raising LDL (bad cholesterol) levels and lowering HDL (good cholesterol) levels in the bloodstream.
In natural occurrences, small amounts of trans fats can be found in dairy products, beef, veal, and lamb. 

However, artificial trans fats are created through the hydrogenation or partial hydrogenation of vegetable oils. These industrially produced trans fats are commonly found in foods that undergo processes like deep frying or baking.

To avoid trans fats, manufacturers often process vegetable oils using hydrogenation to make the product more stable and prevent rancidity. Unfortunately, this process also generates unwanted trans fat components. These trans fats interfere with the removal of LDL cholesterol from the blood and reduce the levels of HDL cholesterol, contributing to heart disease and certain types of cancer.

To reduce your child's intake of saturated fat, it's important to limit their consumption of trans fats. Instead, opt for vegetable oils or liquid margarine. Food packaging usually lists the amount of trans fat in the Nutrition Facts section, so it's crucial to check this information before giving it to your child.

Here are some foods containing trans fats that you should avoid giving your child:
Grilled foods: Many grilled food items, such as meats, may contain trans fats due to the use of hydrogenated oils during cooking.

Cakes, cookies, and pastries: Most cakes, cookies, and hard cakes often contain foaming agents that are partially made up of hydrogenated oils. Additionally, many frozen and preserved foods are significant sources of trans fats.

Snacks: Potato and corn snacks, including certain types of microwaved or packaged popcorn, often contain trans fats for cooking and flavoring purposes.

Fried foods: Deep-fried foods like donuts and fried chicken are often prepared using oils high in trans fats.

Refrigerated foods: Refrigerated items such as canned biscuits, cinnamon rolls, and frozen pizza crusts frequently contain trans fats.

Margarine: Some margarines and vegetable oil-based spreads may contain partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.

By limiting the consumption of foods containing trans fats, you can help your child reduce the risk of certain diseases in the future. It's advisable to consult a nutritionist for guidance on a suitable and healthy diet for your child.