But the fact remains that many don't really understand what trans fat is or why they should avoid it.

An easy to read and comprehensive new book removes the mystery. Get the Trans Fat Out: 601 Simple Ways to Cut the Trans Fat Out of Any Diet (Three Rivers Press, $13.95) explains the science behind all the warnings and offers common sense advice about how to rid your diet of trans fat.

Author Suzanne Havala Hobbs provides answers including: Question: What is trans fat? Answer: Trans fat is different from other types of fat in that it most often is man-made. It is created when vegetable oil is "hydrogenated," meaning hydrogen gas is bubbled through liquid vegetable oil, changing its chemical configuration and making it thicker in consistency.

Q. Why is it bad for your health? A. It increases the risk of developing coronary artery disease. Foods containing trans fat raise the body's level of the most dangerous form of cholesterol, LDL, while lowering the protective form of blood cholesterol, HDL.

Q. How do you get trans fat out of your diet? A.

Hobbs' book details 601 ways. Some highlights:

* Pay attention to and avoid products most likely to contain trans fat, such as commercial baked goods and fast food.

* Make no assumptions about any food. Read the labels. Trans fat is used in many processed foods.

* Avoid premium brands of processed food. They often include the most fat and calories.

* Use nonstick cooking spray or vegetable oil in place of margarine.

- Lisa Carricaburu