What distinguishes cis fats from trans fats?

Cis fats are characterized by having hydrogen atoms on the same side of the double bond in their fatty acid chains. This configuration causes the chain to bend or kink, resulting in a more fluid structure at room temperature. Such structural differences have significant implications for the physical properties of fats, including their melting points and how they behave in the body.

Trans fats, on the other hand, occur when hydrogen atoms are positioned on opposite sides of the double bond, which allows for a straighter fatty acid chain that can pack more tightly together. This change influences the fat's physical properties, often making trans fats solid or semi-solid at room temperature, which is typically less desirable for health compared to cis fats.

Understanding these differences is crucial for recognizing how different types of fats interact with health and nutrition, particularly concerning heart health and the risk of chronic diseases.