Trans fat consumption down, says CDC report

Following the release of new food labeling guidelines, the consumption of trans fat dropped precipitously, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The findings may come as good news for individuals who require a prescription to buy Lipitor to lower their cholesterol.

In 2003 the Food and Drug Administration passed a set of regulations requiring food manufacturers to list the amount of trans fat in their products. This appears to have had a significant impact on trans fat consumption, as the new report indicates that the amount of the substance found in individuals' blood decreased by 58 percent from 2000 to 2009.

Trans fat is known to be a major risk factor for high cholesterol and other cardiovascular conditions. Reducing consumption of it has been seen as a major pubic health goal.

"The 58 percent decline shows substantial progress that should help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease in adults," said Christopher Portier, director of the National Center for Environmental Health at the CDC.

He said that educational efforts should be continued in order to further control consumption of trans fat. This could benefit individuals who require a prescription to buy Lipitor to lower their cholesterol.