FDA Banning Trans Fats Good for Hashimoto’s Sufferers
The FDA Banning Trans Fats is a Huge Win for All of Us!
The evidence is clear: partially hydrogenated oils and the trans fats within are not fit for human consumption, and the U.S Government has finally caught up with this fact. Health specialists have long been describing the negative effects of these trans fats, especially for people with
autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism.
The FDA currently requires food products to have their trans fat contents labeled; however, they have also recently removed trans fats from the category of Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).
The next step is the complete removal of partially hydrogenated oils from food supply.
This appears already underway, as food manufacturers have been given 3 years to phase out trans fats from their products. Packaged, boxed and restaurant foods will become safer following this process.
Managing Hashimoto’s requires constant vigilance with regards to diet; the removal of trans fats should make eating out at restaurants that little bit easier to do safely.
FDA Bans Trans Fats for Heart Health
A primary risk factor associated with trans fats is that of heart disease. The FDA recognizes this: trans fats contribute to the build up of plaque in arteries, subsequently increasing risk for heart conditions. The removal of trans fats is likely to reduce fatal heart attack figures by the thousands.
Trans fats also inhibit cellular function, which can promote inflammation. This type of inflammation is especially significant for people managing Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism.
The Effects of Trans Fats on the Brain
A study has found even minor amounts of trans fats damage the brain. These partially hydrogenated oils can effectively shrink the brain and increase the risk of dementia.
As unmanaged effects of Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism already cause significant stress on the brain, people with this condition should doubly avoid trans fats. Consistent neural preservation is important for long-term health, and consumption of trans fats will directly sabotage this for people with Hashimoto’s.
An important note to consider regarding labeling of trans fats: manufacturers are not required to list trans fats if there is less than 0.5 grams per serving. Instead, you should keep an eye on the list of ingredients; if partially hydrogenated oils are listed there, avoid the product.
Hydrogenated oils are actually closer in molecular structure to plastic than any food: the damaging effects that consuming this can have on the brain aren’t limited a singular way. These oils can clog crucial arteries that bring blood to the brain.
Partially hydrogenated oils can embed in neural cell membranes. This compromises fundamental communication between cells that regulate what enters and exits individual cells. As a result, cells become more rigid and function less effectively, and the important sheath that facilitates neural function can also incorporate toxic trans fats.
Important neural fatty acids, including omega-3’s and DHA brain fats are produced by these neural processes. When compromised, cellular communication suffers and neural tissue degenerates. This can cause poor mental performance disorders, mood instability disorders and memory loss.
Healthy brain fats are essential for overall neural function, and the management of Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism, which is linked with the brain.
Avoid Trans Fats when you are Managing Hashimoto’s
Some common trans fats containing products include but aren’t limited to:
- Crackers, cakes, frozen pies
- Microwave popcorn
- Stick margarines
- Coffee creamers
- Ready-to-use frostings
Brain Friendly Diet to Aid Hashimoto’s
It isn’t very difficult to avoid trans fats in your diet entirely. Some brain-health promoting foods include leafy green vegetables, seafood, eggs, olive oil, nuts, avocados, colorful fruits, nuts and meats.
Investigate the leaky gut/autoimmune diet for some ideas regarding how to eat foods for healthier brain function, or contact my office for advice.
