Understanding Atherosclerosis and the Hidden Dangers of Trans Fats

If you're focused on maintaining your health through good nutrition and supplementation, you wouldn’t consciously consume harmful foods like deep-fried fast food loaded with trans fats. These unhealthy fats are a silent contributor to heart disease, and today, we’re diving deep into a major health concern—atherosclerosis.

I’m Dr. Sal, a practicing surgeon with over 30 years of experience, and my goal is to help transform your mindset to align with God’s design for good health. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes, risks, and prevention strategies for atherosclerosis, helping you make informed choices for a healthier lifestyle.

What is Atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis is the buildup of plaque in the artery walls, leading to blockages that can result in heart attacks, strokes, and various symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and temporary blindness. If a plaque fragment breaks off and travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke; if it moves to the lungs, it can result in a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

This condition is linked to inflammation, specifically of the endothelial lining—the thin layer of cells that coat our blood vessels. When this lining becomes inflamed, it allows for the entry and retention of harmful LDL (low-density lipoproteins), commonly known as bad cholesterol. However, not all LDL is harmful.

There are two types:

• LDL Type A: Large and buoyant, making it less likely to infiltrate blood vessel walls.

• LDL Type B: Smaller and more likely to permeate between endothelial cells, leading to plaque buildup.

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The real culprit isn’t cholesterol itself but oxidized cholesterol, which is a byproduct of excess sugar and unhealthy fat consumption. Understanding oxidation is key—just as oxidation causes iron to rust, it damages our arteries when occurring inside our bodies.

The Role of Trans Fats in Heart Disease

Trans fats are artificially altered fats created through hydrogenation, a process that makes vegetable oils more stable and extends their shelf life. These fats are found in many processed foods, including margarine, deep-fried foods, and certain baked goods.

In the 1950s, saturated fats from animal products were mistakenly blamed for heart disease, leading to widespread adoption of trans fats in the food industry. However, research by Dr. Fred Kummerow, a biochemist who lived to 102 years old, revealed the dangers of trans fats and their role in heart disease. He dedicated his life to proving that trans fats, not saturated fats, were the true threat.

By the 1960s, fast food chains had transitioned from using natural animal fats to hydrogenated vegetable oils, significantly increasing the presence of trans fats in the average diet. Dr. Kummerow urged the FDA to take action against trans fats as early as 1968, but it wasn’t until 2013—after he sued the FDA—that they acknowledged the issue, leading to stricter regulations on food labeling.

How Trans Fats Damage Arteries

Dr. Kummerow’s research demonstrated that trans fats contribute to heart disease in three key ways:

1. Increasing Oxysterols: Oxidized LDL leads to plaque buildup in arteries, causing blockages.

2. Promoting Inflammation: Free radicals generated from poor diet choices damage endothelial cells.

3. Inducing Arterial Calcification: The buildup of oxidized lipids leads to hardened arteries, reducing their flexibility and increasing blood pressure.
   

The Importance of Antioxidants

Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, preventing LDL oxidation, and protecting arterial walls. Some of the best sources of antioxidants include:

• Vitamins C and E (found in citrus fruits, nuts, and seeds)

• Herbs and Spices (such as rosemary, thyme, and basil)

• Eggs and Lecithin (which contain phosphatidylcholine, a beneficial cholesterol that supports cell membranes)

Studies have shown that individuals who consume antioxidants along with cholesterol-rich foods have lower levels of oxidized LDL, reducing their risk of cardiovascular disease.

The Hidden Dangers in Food Labels

Many food products claim to have “zero trans fats” on their labels. However, this only applies to the product in its packaged state. Once consumed and metabolized, certain oils—such as canola oil—are converted into trans fats within the body, contributing to the very problem they claim to avoid.

Avoiding trans fats requires more than just reading labels; it involves choosing whole, unprocessed foods and cooking with healthy fats like butter, olive oil, and unhydrogenated lard.

The Misconception About Egg Yolks

Egg yolks have long been demonized due to their cholesterol content. However, this belief originated from the early 20th century when powdered eggs became popular. The process of dehydrating eggs oxidized their cholesterol, making them harmful. Fresh egg yolks, on the other hand, contain beneficial phosphatidylcholine, which supports healthy cell membranes and brain function.

Key Takeaways for a Healthier Life

1. Eliminate Trans Fats – Avoid fried foods, margarine, and processed oils.

2. Increase Antioxidants – Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and herbs.

3. Choose Healthy Fats – Use butter, olive oil, and unprocessed animal fats.

4. Be Skeptical of Food Labels – “Zero trans fats” claims can be misleading.

5. Don’t Fear Cholesterol – Consume eggs and natural fats in moderation for optimal health.

   
   

By aligning our eating habits with natural, whole foods, we can support our cardiovascular health and live as God intended—free from preventable diseases like atherosclerosis.

Thank you for joining me on this journey toward better health

If you found this information helpful, please leave a review and connect with us on social media. For any health-related questions, feel free to reach out via email.

 Take care and stay healthy!

I hope this message resonates with you and inspires you to take steps toward a life of health and purpose. Each blog post is backed by research, helping you align your health with a disciplined, purpose-driven life. Please share your thoughts, leave a review, or reach out with any questions. May this journey bring you closer to the health and vitality God intends for you. For more information watch my video on 12 Steps to Health Restoration.

God bless,

Dr. Sal