Every time you turn on the news or open a newspaper these days there is a story about trans fat. New York City recently banned the use of this fat in restaurants, and fast food chains (like Wendy's, Taco Bell, and McDonald's) all over the country are changing their cooking techniques to eliminate trans fat from their products. Why is trans fat suddenly so newsworthy? Where did it come from? Why is it so bad for you, and how can you avoid it? Are there alternative fats that are safer? This chapter will help you learn more about these fats and your health.