Why should you never eat margarine?

Studies have shown that trans fats are responsible for obesity, heart disease, diabetes, degenerative joint diseases, depression, behavioral changes. It also increases the "bad" cholesterol level and induces a "good" cholesterol lowering. Trans fats have carcinogenic effects because of their use especially for frying.

The Consumers Association from Romania analyzed 30 margarine varieties distributed in supermarkets.

Regarding the food additives and the flavors identified in the composition of the margarine assortments analyzed, nutrition specialists found the following:

• 77% of the margarines analyzed contain citric acid , an additive used as an acidifying agent. The best documented effect of citric acid is the destruction of the dental enamel, which promotes the appearance of dental caries. Citric acid is not recommended for children.

• 60% of the margarines analyzed contain artificial flavors, they are used to enhance the taste and flavor.

• 60% of the margarines analyzed contain preservatives , potassium sorbate and sorbic acid. Potassium sorbate is an additive that irritates skin and eyes. Sorbic acid may produce allergic skin reactions and respiratory disturbances.

• 37% of the margarines analyzed contain sunflower lecithin used as an emulsifier.

"Margarine, in most cases, is a mixture of water, exotic vegetable oils and fats, emulsifiers, citric acid, preservatives and artificial flavors. Many types of margarine contain trans fatty acids, responsible for diseases such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes, degenerative joint diseases, depression and behavioral changes.

In some countries, the amount of such fat has been regulated in foods to limit the illness caused by the consumption of trans fats. Denmark has instituted the sanction, since 2004, that any food containing more than 2% trans fats is illegal. (...),", explained Costel Stanciu, President of APC.

Source: APC Romania
Photo source: pixabay.com