What is the Difference Between Cis and Trans Fat?

The main difference between cis and trans fats lies in the position of the two hydrogen atoms located next to the carbon atoms where the double bond exists. Cis fatty acids have both hydrogen atoms on the same side, while trans fatty acids have the two hydrogen atoms on opposite sides.

Cis fats are generally beneficial and can promote good cholesterol, whereas trans fats are considered detrimental to health, lowering good cholesterol and increasing the level of bad cholesterol in the body. Cis fatty acids are more common in nature, while the majority of trans fats come from processed foods, such as hydrogenated oils. However, some natural trans fats do occur in meat and dairy products.

Key differences between cis and trans fats include:

• Health Effect: Cis fats are generally good for health unless consumed in unreasonably high quantities, while trans fats are detrimental to heart health and could cause cardiac problems.
• Occurrence: Cis fats occur naturally in foods, while the majority of trans fats come from processed foods, such as hydrogenated oils.
• Atom Arrangement: In cis fatty acids, both hydrogen atoms are located on the same side of the carbon atoms, while in trans fatty acids, the hydrogen atoms are located on opposite sides.

Trans fats may be monounsaturated or polyunsaturated, and their production is a result of partial hydrogenation, a process used by the food industry to extend shelf life and make fats less prone to rancidity.

Comparative Table: Cis vs Trans Fat

The difference between cis and trans fats lies in the arrangement of atoms in the fat molecules. Here is a comparison between the two types of fats:

Trans fats are considered detrimental to health and are often found in processed foods, while cis fats are generally beneficial and occur naturally in plant-based oils, nuts, and seeds.