Excess consumption of saturated fats and trans fats is directly linked to what health issue?

Excess consumption of saturated fats and trans fats is primarily linked to heart disease due to the way these fats affect cholesterol levels in the body. Saturated fats can raise the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, which can lead to the buildup of plaques in the arteries. This buildup contributes to atherosclerosis, a condition that narrows and hardens arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Trans fats also have a detrimental effect by not only increasing LDL cholesterol but also lowering high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is considered the "good" cholesterol that helps protect against heart disease. Therefore, the intake of these types of fats is associated with a significant increase in cardiovascular health risks, making heart disease the most direct health issue linked to their excessive consumption.

While diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure can also be influenced by diet and fat intake, the most compelling and direct relationship concerning saturated and trans fats is with heart disease.