Most people think that trans-fat or even natural saturated fat is converted to LDL. However, the body never converts saturated fat into LDL cholesterol. Trans-fats, also known as unsaturated fats can be obtained from processed foods and other meat products.
If trans-fats are not converted into LDL, how are they ingested to the body? Unsaturated fat, in general, is ingested to the body by emulsification. Since unsaturated fat could not be broken down by saliva or even in the stomach, it proceeds straight to the small intestine. It is in the small intestine where the vital emulsification process begins. The liver sends bile to that part of the digestive track. After that, the bile mixes with fat droplets and water. The bile acids attach to the fat droplets so that they could be broken down into smaller particles. The droplets are broken into smaller sizes until they are free to mix with water in the intestine.
After emulsification, the fat proceeds to the process known as hydrolysis. The pancreas will release lipase, a substance that attaches itself to the fat droplets. The lipase will break the droplets into small molecules. Their main components, fatty acids and monoglycerides, will be separated. These molecules could now fit the small walls of the arteries. This is the part where the fat gets absorbed into the body.
LDL is different from unsaturated fats. Also known as low density lipoprotein, it acts like a transport vehicle. It takes the fat and cholesterol away from the bloodstream. LDL brings these harmful substances to the liver where they will be processed. LDL is important since it keeps the arteries safe from unsaturated fat build up. However, high levels of LDL can be very dangerous to the health. It can promote serious health problems such as cardiovascular diseases.
