The ‘Unhealthy Fat’ Doctors Say You Should Stop Putting In Your Body Because It Practically Guarantees Inflammation And Bloating

Trans fats and digestive issues

According to Cohen, trans fats like the kinds found in many of those deviously delicious processed foods such as potato chips, baked goods, frozen meals, and more, are the worst fats around when it comes to your digestive health. "Trans fats commonly present in processed foods are the greatest offenders when it comes to triggering inflammation and gas," she warns.

These fats come from liquid oils (many of which can also be detrimental to your health), and they're used to help processed foods last longer. "Changing liquid oils into trans fats through hydrogenation increases their storage life," Cohen explains.

So, what sort of digestive issues can you expect from consuming processed foods that are high in trans fats? "Disruption of gut microbiota, gas, and persistent, low-grade inflammation are all brought on by these lipids," Cohen lists.

But the risks don't just stop at your gut health. Cohen also notes that trans fats "raise the dangers of cardiovascular disease and diabetes." Yikes!

Healthy fats to eat instead

Luckily, not all fats are bad for you. In fact, there are a wide range of healthy fats you can eat in order to support a well-running digestive system and keep your overall wellness in check.

Some of the best fats out there are known as monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. "Olive oil, avocados, and almonds are good sources of monounsaturated fats, while fatty fish, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are good sources of polyunsaturated fats that can help reduce inflammation and bloating while also providing essential nutrients," Cohen concludes.

The bottom line

Keeping your digestive system healthy requires a range of daily habits, from ensuring you get enough exercise to managing your stress levels. However, your diet certainly plays a major role. By limiting your intake of trans fats and swapping them for healthier choices, you'll help your gut stay in good shape—which means the rest of your body will be in better shape, too.