1. Blood Levels of Trans Fats Are Declining in Americans The New York Times By Anahad O'Connor FEBRUARY 8, 2012

2. Background Previous research: – Trans fats increase risk of heart disease – Increase LDL & lower HDL cholesterols Public outcry prompted government action: – Labeling changes – Local bans: New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles Consumption of partially hydrogenated oils decreased

3. Research published in JAMA CDC researchers tested 521 middle-aged adults in 2000 and 2009 – Longitudinal study Trans fat levels fell by 58% in that period Can assume that consumption also fell – Changing preferences – Government interventions Blood tests show other improvements

6. Harvard Nurses’ Health Study Started in 1976 Longitudinal study of 238,000 nurses Has led to important discoveries: – Link between trans fats and heart disease – Mediterranean diets reduce heart disease risk – Red meat increases risk of breast and colon cancer Followed by GUTS study: – Children who eat dinner with family are less obese. – Breastfeeding as an infant decreases risk of obesity.