Some studies have shown that seed oils can be harmful to health, while other studies have shown that they are safe. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of seed oils on health.
Here are some of the latest studies on seed oils:
- A 2022 study published in the journal Nutrients found that seed oils may increase the risk of heart disease. The study looked at data from over 100,000 people and found that those who consumed the most seed oils were more likely to have high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.
- A 2019 study published in the journal JAMA Network Open found that seed oils may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. The study looked at data from over 400,000 people and found that those who consumed the most seed oils were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.
- A 2022 study published in the journal Redox Biology found that seed oils may increase the risk of cancer. The study looked at data from over 500,000 people and found that those who consumed the most seed oils were more likely to develop cancer.
Seed Oils vs. Vegetable Oils: What Are They?
Vegetable oils are fats extracted from plants. They are a good source of unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Vegetable oils can be used for cooking, baking, and salad dressings. Some common vegetable oils include olive oil, canola oil, corn oil, soybean oil, and sunflower oil.
Seed oils are a type of vegetable oil that is extracted from the seeds of plants. They are typically high in omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for human health. However, some people believe that seed oils can be harmful to health because they are often highly processed and contain high levels of omega-6 fatty acids.
What is the difference between seed oils and vegetable oils?
The main difference between seed oils and vegetable oils is that seed oils are extracted from the seeds of plants, while vegetable oils can be extracted from any part of the plant. For example, olive oil is extracted from the flesh of olives, while canola oil is extracted from the seeds of rapeseed plants.
Are seed oils bad for you?
Some studies have shown that seed oils can be harmful to health. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of seed oils on health.
Which oils are best to use?
The best oils to use are those that are unrefined and cold-pressed. These oils are less processed and contain more nutrients than refined oils. Some good choices include olive oil, avocado oil, and coconut oil.
“When it comes to health and fitness, choose the oils that are going to improve your performance the most”, Coach Stephanie Holbrook.
Seed Oils, Health Claims, and Regulation
Here are the most common examples of industrial seed oils to keep in mind:
- Canola (rapeseed) oil
- Corn oil
- Cottonseed oil
- Grapeseed oil
- Peanut oil
- Rice bran oil
- Safflower oil
- Soybean oil
- Sunflower oil
The human diet has recently incorporated a massive consumption of seeds and seed oils, which are high in a type of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid known as linoleic acid.
While these fats are necessary in small amounts, excessive consumption of omega-6 fats can lead to inflammation and other health issues. Therefore, the negative health impacts of seed oil consumption are similar despite the varying types of seed oils in different diets.
While people have been consuming foods like corn, peanuts, and sunflower seeds for a long time, it was not possible to consume significant amounts of linoleic acid through whole foods in the past. ‘
Industrialized countries consumed 20% or more of their calories from seed oils high in linoleic acid, which reflects a 20-fold increase in seed oil consumption in the past 100-120 years.
Animal Studies on the Toxicity and Safety of Seed Oils
Studies show that industrial seed oils with inflammatory linoleic acid are linked to health problems like heart disease, cancer, and dementia. These oils are unstable and contribute to global deforestation, according to research.
What Oils to use instead?
For centuries, the following traditional fats, bursting with vital nutrients, have nourished thriving populations:
For Cooking:
- – Butter
- – Tallow and suet from beef and lamb
- – Lard from pigs
- – Chicken, goose, and duck fat
- – Coconut, palm, and palm kernel oils
For Salads:
- – Extra virgin olive oil (also suitable for cooking)
- – Expeller-expressed sesame and peanut oils
- – In moderation, expeller-expressed flax oil
For Fat-Soluble Vitamins:
– Cod liver oil (preferable to fish oils, as they lack fat-soluble vitamins and may contain excessive unsaturated fatty acids, often sourced from farmed fish).
On the contrary, the following modern fats can lead to potential health risks such as cancer, heart disease, immune system issues, sterility, learning disabilities, growth problems, and osteoporosis:
In conclusion:
Choose your oils wisely to support your well-being and vitality.