Are you seeing more trans-fat-free offerings in your grocery store? Good. Pick ’em up.

New research shows that trans fat isn’t just bad for your heart. It may increase your risk of colon cancer, too.

When Bad Fats Go Badder
Researchers recently reviewed the health of 622 colonoscopy patients and came up with plenty of fuel for the down-with-trans-fats fire. People who ate the most trans fat -- an average of 6.5 grams per day -- were 86 percent more likely to have potentially precancerous colon polyps compared with those who consumed the least trans
fat -- about 3.6 grams or less per day. Seems trans fats can mess with the colon’s normal, healthy balance of bile and fatty acids and damage the mucus that protects this organ. Get a breakdown of all your fat, protein, carb, and calorie needs with this online tool.

Less Is More
For heart health, the American Heart Association recommends that no more than 1 percent of your daily calories come from trans fat. That means if you eat 2,000 calories a day, no more than 2 grams should come from trans fat. Since trans fat is found mostly in packaged sweets, frozen dishes, and fried foods, steering clear of them will help. Your other option is to closely read the list of ingredients, keeping in mind that even products labeled trans-fat-free can still have up to 0.5 grams of the stuff per serving. So cut down on anything that lists hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils among the ingredients, too -- "hydrogenated" is a red flag for trans fat. Need help deciphering food labels? Try this quick tutorial.

Video: Get more help on choosing healthy fats.