Don't partially hydrogenate me, please -- a New Year's resolution

If you've already written down (and are following) your New Year's resolution list, perhaps you can add this one to the list -- dump partially-hydrogenated oils from your diet completely. These oils -- known as trans fats -- come in several varieties like coconut, palm kernel, corn and other innocent-sounding names. They are anything but innocent, though.

On your next trip to the grocery, check out the labels on all the processed foods you buy (anything not fresh, like produce or meat products). Chances are the words "partially hydrogenated" is on the label. Not only does this dangerous chemical make things taste good, it allows for a long shelf life as well -- which is key in food retailing.

One of the best nutrition-based resolutions, though, would be to band products containing this chemical from your home.