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.