Trans fatty acid consumption and the effect on lipids in young adults: Jayhawk Observed Eating study (JOE)

Introduction. Nutrient intake, body weight and increased body fat percent (BF) among young adults and the relationship among lipoproteins are of interest. Purpose. The purpose of the current study was to determine if changes in trans fatty acid intake among young adults over a 12-week period results in changes in Total, LDL, non-HDL and HDL cholesterol. Methods. Two-hundred and sixty participants consumed ad-libitum diets in the Kansas University cafeteria over a 12-week period. Energy and nutrient content were measured using digital picture plate waste photography, and all meals and snacks taken outside of the cafeteria were measured by dietary recall. Results. Increased intake of trans fatty acid predicted an increase in HDL and LDL cholesterol. Increased BF predicted an increase in LDL cholesterol and a decrease in HDL cholesterol. Conclusion. An increase in BF adversely affects lipoproteins in young adults.