Obesity and Fats

There are two isomeric forms of ingested fats that contain a double-bond (C=C). The two types are called cis and trans and basically describe the molecular shape. The cis-fat is more circular in its shape and the trans-fat more linear and zig-zagged.

E-Z or cis/trans

The naming comes from German: entgegen (E) means opposite (trans-), so on opposing sides [of the double bond] and zusammen (Z) means together (cis-), so on the same side [of the double bond]. To state simply 'fat' is like mentioning just 'alcohol'. There is a great variety of both chemical groups. Thousands of each. Water and petrol are both liquids, but liquid is not an adequate description of these two 'similar' media. These two examples of liquid are very different.

Trans fats commonly appear in junk food and can be responsible for increased cholesterol in the blood. It must be appreciated that cholesterol is a highly important alcohol in the human biological system, but the problems arise when there is too much of it in that system. This somewhat simplifies the issue, but does touch on the problem.

A great many trans fats are synthetic and originate from the partial hydrogenation of vegetable oils into a more solid form. The chemical process can be tailored to a degree to produce different end products. Margarine is such a product, but such a description is not for a single new product, but only a type that has absolutely no connection with butter. One advantage that 'sells' is that it is spreadable at ordinary ambient (room) temperatures or even lower where butter can be like a brick.

Some products are a mixture of butter and more mobile hydrogenated fats. They can also be up to 85% cheaper. This is, of course, a commercially important point that has no interest in health issues.

Profit commonly has the price tag
of poor health