FDA food labeling has a real impact on American’s health.

In a good way!

The research shows just how effective these strategies can be when attempting to change behaviors.

By labeling and banning trans fats a significant, positive change has occurred.

Blood levels of trans fat declined 58 percent from 2000 to 2008. FDA began requiring trans-fat labeling in 2003. During the same period several parts of the country — New York most famously — passed laws limiting trans fats in restaurant food and cooking. The makers of processed food also voluntarily replaced trans fats with less harmful oils.

The decline, unusually big and abrupt, strongly suggests government regulation was effective in altering a risk factor for heart disease for a broad swath of the population.

Illinois would be the second state to enact a ban of trans fats if the senate approves the bill and Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn does indeed sign it.

California was the first state officially ban the use of trans fats and other cites and municipalities around the country have followed.

Health costs are crippling many state economies and a ban on trans fats is seen as a way to alleviate some of that burden.

The health risks of trans fats are well known and limiting their use could only improve overall health of the population.

Legislation that passed the Illinois House on Wednesday would ban artery-clogging trans fats in food served in restaurants, movie theaters, cafes and bakeries or sold in school vending machines, starting in 2013. School cafeterias would be affected in 2016. Most prepackaged food would not be covered.