Abstract
The term “trans fatty acids” (TFAs) describes unsaturated fatty acids that contain at least one double bond in trans configuration. Ruminant animals produce TFAs in small quantities. Industrial hardening produces far larger amounts of TFAs. A high intake of TFAs has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Legal actions to limit the use of TFA are effective as demonstrated by markedly decreasing levels of TFA in most nations worldwide. Although there is a broad consent that the consumption of high amounts of industrially produced TFAs is harmful for human health and leads to a higher mortality risk, the picture is less clear regarding a low intake with a majority of studies reporting no association with LDL-C or cardiovascular risk. Regarding ruminant-derived TFAs, most studies do not observe an increased mortality risk and some beneficial effects on glucose metabolism and diabetes incidence have been reported.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
