By now, I’m sure you’ve read that the FDA banned trans fats for health reasons. What you may not have heard about is Dr Fred Kummerow, the 100-year-old scientist who discovered the dangers of trans fats in the late 1950s.

What I love about this story is Kummerow’s perseverance and humility. After his discovery in 1957, he worked with the American Health Association to reduce trans fats in 1968. Forty-four years later, in 2012, Kummerow sued the FDA for endangering American’s health.

Now that these artery-clogging fats are banned, you might think that Kummerow (an adjunct professor at the University of Illinois) would be resting on his laurels or touting his victory. Instead he quietly asserts that he has more research to do.

Watch this short clip about Dr Kummerow’s story.

If you believe strongly in something never, never give up. The next time you want to quit in the wake of the uphill battle—don’t! Instead, remember this story and its proof that perseverance pays off in the end.

 

Rose Caiola
Inspired. Rewired.

To find out more about Rose’s thoughts on how to live a happier life, click here