Trans fatty acids are unsaturated fats with a unique 'trans configuration' that affects their physical properties and health implications. Found in processed foods, they are created through hydrogenation, leading to increased shelf life but also health risks like heart disease and diabetes. Understanding their role in nutrition and food science is crucial for making informed dietary choices.
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Trans fatty acids have hydrogen atoms on opposite sides of the double bond, leading to a more linear and rigid structure
Ruminant Animals
Trans fats are produced by bacteria in the stomachs of ruminant animals during digestion
Small Quantities
Naturally occurring trans fats are found in small quantities in the fat of ruminants, such as cows and sheep
Hydrogenation Process
Artificial trans fats are created in processed foods through the industrial process of hydrogenation, where hydrogen gas is used to convert liquid vegetable oils into semi-solid fats
Fatty acids are composed of hydrocarbon chains that can be saturated or unsaturated, with the configuration of hydrogen atoms around double bonds determining their physical shape
Trans fatty acids are valuable in food preservation due to their resistance to oxidation and spoilage
The study of trans fats is important for understanding the impact of molecular structure on stability and reactivity, with broader implications in fields such as nutrition, medicine, and environmental science
The intake of trans fatty acids has been linked to adverse health effects such as increased LDL cholesterol, decreased HDL cholesterol, systemic inflammation, and a higher risk of chronic conditions
Trans fats are commonly found in processed foods, particularly in items such as baked goods, fried foods, margarine, and vegetable shortening
To protect health, it is essential to minimize the intake of trans fats and implement regulatory measures to safeguard public health
00
Unlike trans fats, the '______ configuration' of unsaturated fats has hydrogen atoms on the same side, causing a ______ shape.
cis
bent
01
Artificial trans fats are produced through ______ of liquid oils, while natural trans fats are found in the fat of ______ like cows.
hydrogenation
ruminants
02
Definition of fatty acids
Long hydrocarbon chains, can be saturated (single bonds) or unsaturated (one/more double bonds).
