Trans Fats Trans Fats Are Unsaturated Fats Found in Many Processed Foods

Trans fats
Trans fats are unsaturated fats found in many processed foods. Though their prevalence makes them a part of many people's diet, excessive consumption of trans fats can lead to a variety of serious health problems.
Certain trans fats are found naturally in some animal products, such as beef and milk. However, the main source of trans fats for many people is processed foods. Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils are trans fats that are often found in shortening, packaged baked goods, and fried foods. Restaurants and food manufacturers often choose to use partially hydrogenated oils because they are less expensive, have longer shelf lives, and require less refrigeration than non-hydrogenated oils.
Although trans fats may be less expensive for food manufacturers to use, and thus cheaper for consumers to purchase, excessive intake of these substances can cause significant health risks. Like saturated fat, trans fat raises the level of LDL ("bad") cholesterol in the body. Unlike saturated fat, however, trans fat also lowers the amount of HDL ("good") cholesterol in the body. Therefore, trans fat has a far more negative overall effect on cholesterol levels in the human body than saturated fat. Studies have also linked the consumption of trans fats to increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, cancer, liver dysfunction, depression, and memory disorders.
What is the general purpose of the passage?

A) To explain the differences between trans fats and saturated fats.
B) To inform the reader why trans fats are so popular.
C) To inform the reader of the negative effects and potential consequences of trans fats.
D) To persuade people to eliminate trans fats while providing alternatives.