Blood Levels of Trans Fats Are Declining in Americans The New York Times By Anahad O'Connor...

Blood Levels of Trans Fats Are Declining in Americans

The New York TimesBy Anahad O'Connor

FEBRUARY 8, 2012

Background

• Previous research:– Trans fats increase risk of heart disease– Increase LDL & lower HDL cholesterols

• Public outcry prompted government action:– Labeling changes– Local bans: New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles

• Consumption of partially hydrogenated oils decreased

Research published in JAMA

• CDC researchers tested 521 middle-aged adults in 2000 and 2009– Longitudinal study

• Trans fat levels fell by 58% in that period• Can assume that consumption also fell– Changing preferences– Government interventions

• Blood tests show other improvements

Harvard Nurses’ Health Study

• Started in 1976• Longitudinal study of 238,000 nurses• Has led to important discoveries:– Link between trans fats and heart disease– Mediterranean diets reduce heart disease risk– Red meat increases risk of breast and colon cancer

• Followed by GUTS study:– Children who eat dinner with family are less obese.– Breastfeeding as an infant decreases risk of obesity.