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How can trans fats contribute to atherosclerosis?

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Trans fat Commercially manufactured foods, including cookies, doughnuts, and muffins, often contain trans fats.

Trans fats contribute to atherosclerosis primarily by negatively altering blood cholesterol levels, which leads to the accumulation of fat within blood vessels.1

Specifically, the consumption of trans fat increases levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Simultaneously, these fats lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. While LDL is associated with the buildup of arterial plaque, HDL is essential for transporting cholesterol away from cells and blood vessels to the liver for metabolism and excretion. By raising LDL and depleting HDL, trans fats significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and related conditions.12