In my last column, I wrote about trans fats, what they are, and why they are so harmful to you. Today I want to explore how to get the best nutrition possible from fast foods and other restaurants, and how to avoid the worst.

Let’s face it, fast foods are a fact of life for most of us. But choosing wisely can make a huge difference in how you feel, how you look, how often you go to the doctor, and even how many medications you take.

This morning on my drive to work, I heard a radio show host describe how “good” those homemade biscuits are at a local fast food restaurant. This word is relative. If “good” means a high-trans-fat, high-calorie food chemically altered to promote weight gain and cause heart disease and breast cancer, then the word is used correctly.

Research has proven these facts to be the truth. A study at UNC-Chapel Hill in 1997 found a 40 per cent higher risk of breast cancer in women who had higher levels of trans fatty acids. If you have a history of breast cancer in your family, you should avoid trans fats like the plague. Numerous studies have also proven that trans fat causes heart disease and higher weight gain.

Until fast food companies and restaurants agree to eliminate trans fats and decrease saturated fats on their menus, I urge all readers to avoid these disease-causing ingredients. Here is a list that you can clip out and carry with you to all restaurant visits.

BETTER, HEALTHIER CHOICES

POOR, UNHEALTHY CHOICES

Restaurants can do their part by providing healthier choices and making them available to customers. I would also urge restaurants to advertise to the public if they have eliminated trans fats in food preparation. Remember, in today’s climate, with the demand for healthier food choices, healthy foods are profitable, not only for restaurants, but also for individuals who are looking to reap health benefits.