Trans Fatty Acids

We have heard so many times about the bad health effects of trans fats. What are they? Where do they come from? How does it affect us?  In order to answer these questions and to create awareness on these types of fats, Assoc Prof D. Goburdhun, of the Faculty of Agriculture wrote an article in le Mauricien in 2010.

Lipids contribute to good health. Fats or lipids are an important part of a healthy diet because they supply essential fatty acids and energy (calories). They help the body absorb vitamins A, D and E. They also play a fundamental role in the composition of cell membranes, nuclei and nerve tissue. Fats and oils are composed mainly of fatty acids. A fatty acid is a molecule composed of a chain of carbons linked to hydrogens. Most fats and oils are made of a mixture of different types of fatty acids, but in general, a special type of fatty acid predominates. To read more click here