AMA: Trans Fat Ban Would Save Lives
Avoiding trans-fats is part of eating right with diabetes.
The title statement is attributed to: Patrice A. Harris, M.D., AMA Board Member.
Banning the use of artificial trans fats is a life-saving move that can help keep the public healthy, and the American Medical Association strongly supports the Food and Drug Administration’s recommendation to eliminate one of the most harmful fats in our food supply.
The FDA’s recommendation aligns with AMA’s strategy to prevent heart disease and type 2 diabetes and to improve outcomes for those suffering from these diseases. With proper intervention, such as eating right with diabetes, the effects of these conditions can be dramatically reduced, leading to a healthier nation and reducing health care spending.
Eating foods containing trans fat significantly increases the risk for heart disease by raising levels of bad cholesterol, while lowering levels of good cholesterol. Healthier fats and oils should be substituted when trans fats are removed from foods. Healthier options, such as extra virgin olive oil, could prevent 30,000 to 100,000 premature deaths each year.