It has been determined that trans fats, which have entered our lives since 1911, cause the death of more than 500 thousand people a year. In particular, it is stated that it increases the risk of heart attack, Cardiology specialist Assoc. Dr. Serkan Akdağ stated that it poses a serious danger to children and young people.
TRANS FATS ARE FATALLY HARMFUL
Memorial Dicle Hospital Cardiology specialist Assoc. Dr. Serkan Akdağ emphasized that the use of trans fats is a cheap, easily obtainable substance found in many packaged food products, extending the shelf life of the food, preventing the spoilage of the food for a long time, and giving the food its taste.
“WE DO NOT WANT THE USE OF TRANS FAT”
Stating that trans fats are highly sought after in the industry due to their properties, Assoc. Dr. Akdag said, “We do not want it. Because trans fats are very different from the natural fat group in the human body. Trans fats are a substance that disrupts the most important part of the vessel, which we call the endothelium. Therefore, since trans fats disrupt the vascular structures, they harm many organs of the body, especially the heart and brain.
However, it can lead to the formation of many cancers. It can increase our obesity, sugar and cholesterol values. For these reasons, we do not want the use of trans fats. Trans fats unfortunately entered our lives in 1911. Since then, its consumption has been increasing,” he said.
MOST OF THE PRODUCTS ON THE MARKETS CONTAIN TRANS FAT
Underlining that approximately 500 thousand people in the world are dying only because of trans fat, Assoc. Dr. Akdağ continued his words as follows: “Therefore, it is an issue that really needs to be focused on. Its consumption needs to be more strictly controlled. Many products we see in the markets contain trans fat. Particular attention should be paid to children.
It is consumed by children and young people, especially in school canteens and fast food consumption. From the ready-made donuts that children eat to chocolates, from hamburgers to fast food, to chips, all contain trans fat. And their rates are extremely high. Unfortunately, many of these products do not pass inspection. One of the most important causes of obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol, especially in children, is the use of trans fats. We need to seriously reduce this. We need to take precautions now so that children, especially young people, do not have heart disease, kidney, brain, disease, obesity, diabetes and cholesterol in their future lives.”