Just because the nutrition facts panel on a package says “0 g” after “trans fat” doesn’t mean the food is truly trans fat–free. Here’s what you need to know, from The Best Life Guide to Managing Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes, a New York Times® Bestseller by Bob Greene.
“0 grams trans fat!” boasts the label of many margarines, crackers, and other packaged foods. But is it really free of this artery-clogging fat? Turn the package around, and indeed, you’ll see a “0 g” after “trans fat” on the nutrition facts panel. But that still doesn’t mean the product is truly trans fat–free. Due to a legal loophole in food labeling, a product can state “0 g trans fat” and still contain nearly half a gram (up to 0.49 grams) per serving. Even 1 or 2 grams daily can harm your health, and you can see how quickly a few half grams can add up.
Fortunately, the ingredients list doesn’t lie; if it contains any type of partially hydrogenated oil, the product has trans fat. Because you can’t tell from the label exactly how much a product may contain, it’s best to opt for a brand that contains no partially hydrogenated oil.
And remember, just because a product has no partially hydrogenated oil or trans fat doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Some manufacturers are simply replacing that type of oil with palm oil, which is high in saturated fat. Or they’re using “hydrogenated” or “fully hydrogenated” oil, which does not contain trans fat but, depending on the oil, could be high in saturated fat. So compare labels of similar products and choose those that are not only free of partially hydrogenated oil but also lower in saturated fat (and sodium, while you’re at it).
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bob Greene, author of The Best Life Guide to Managing Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes (Copyright © 2009 by Bestlife Corporation), is an exercise physiologist and certified personal trainer specializing in fitness, metabolism, and weight loss. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Arizona and is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Council on Exercise. Bob has been a guest on the Oprah Winfrey Show and is the bestselling author of The Best Life Diet Cookbook; The Best Life Diet, Revised and Updated; The Best Life Diet Daily Journal; Bob Greene’s Total Body Makeover; and more.
LEARN MORE
- Read the Introduction to The Best Life Guide to Managing Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes
- Watch the video: Bob Green on his bestselling book
- Browse more books by the author
