Cholesterol and Fat All of the foods listed in Gail's book are completely cholesterol-free. Foods that are fat-free are identified by the symbol. There are many completely vegetarian foods which are excluded from Gail's book because they contain hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils. Unlike other vegetable oils, these oils are high in saturated fat. When you eat foods containing artery-clogging hydrogenated oils, your body responds by producing cholesterol.
Hydrogenated oils are liquid oils that have been chemically altered to be solid at room temperature.
Manufacturers use them because they are cheap, have a long shelf life, and add a smooth texture to foods. Products containing any of these oils should be avoided. Also, beware of products containing soy margarine. They usually contain hydrogenated soybean oil, although it may not be listed on the product label as such. You'll find that when you are transitioning to a vegetarian diet, breakfast is the most effortless meal of the day.