11 Inflammatory Ingredients Hiding in Your Favorite Processed Foods

2. Artificial Trans Fats: The Clogged Artery Architects (Partially Hydrogenated Oils)

Though their use is declining, artificial trans fats – often listed as "partially hydrogenated oils" – are masters of disguise in processed foods like margarines, shortenings, packaged baked goods, and fried fast foods. Created to extend shelf life and improve texture, these fats are inflammatory villains. They raise LDL ("bad") cholesterol, lower HDL ("good") cholesterol, and promote arterial inflammation, directly increasing heart disease risk. Even "0g trans fat" labels can be misleading if PHOs are present in small amounts per serving.