Macronutrient

Trans Fats

Trans fats are harmful fats, mostly from industrial processing, that raise heart disease risk — intake in the UK is now low, but they are best avoided.

Written by Meds Global Health Clinical Team · Clinically reviewed by Dr Muhammad Suffyan, MB BS, Founder & Clinical Director · Last reviewed · How we review

What it is

Trans fats are a type of unsaturated fat that behaves like saturated fat. Small amounts occur naturally in some meat and dairy, but the more harmful kind came from industrially processed (partially hydrogenated) oils.

What it does

Unlike healthy fats, trans fats raise "bad" LDL cholesterol and lower "good" HDL cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Good sources

There is no health reason to seek trans fats out. They were historically found in some fried foods, baked goods, pastries and margarines made with hydrogenated oil.

Deficiency and who is at risk

There is no requirement for trans fats and no such thing as a deficiency — the advice is to avoid them as far as possible.

Balance

Can you have too much?

Any excess is unhealthy. UK intakes are now generally low because manufacturers have removed most industrial trans fats, but it is still wise to limit foods that may contain them.

Education and reference only. This is general nutrition information, not personal advice, and does not give doses. Ask a pharmacist, GP or registered dietitian before starting supplements, especially with a health condition or in pregnancy.

Answers

Trans Fats: frequently asked questions

Are trans fats still in UK foods?

Levels are now low, as most manufacturers have removed industrial (partially hydrogenated) trans fats. Small natural amounts remain in some meat and dairy. Checking labels for "hydrogenated" oils can help you avoid the industrial kind.

Why are trans fats considered the worst type of fat?

They raise harmful LDL cholesterol and lower protective HDL cholesterol at the same time, which is why they are linked most strongly to heart disease and best avoided.

Related

More on macronutrients and nutrition

ProteinProtein is a major nutrient the body uses to build and repair muscles, organs, skin and mo…FibreFibre is the part of plant foods the body cannot digest. It keeps the bowels healthy, help…CarbohydratesCarbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy. Starchy, higher-fibre carbs such as wh…Dietary FatsFat is an essential nutrient that provides energy and helps absorb some vitamins — but the…Saturated FatSaturated fat, found mainly in fatty meat, butter and cheese, can raise cholesterol and he…Unsaturated FatUnsaturated fats — from vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and oily fish — are the healthier fats…

Sources

Where this is drawn from

  • NHS — Eat well
  • British Dietetic Association (BDA)
  • UK Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN)

Building nutrition or patient-education content?

We create clear, accurate, referenced health explainers and decision aids for teams and learners.

Talk to us ☎ +44 7448 439750
☎ Call Get a Proposal