Seed oils have become a hot topic lately, with some people claiming they are harmful to your health.
But experts from Northeastern University say that eating seed oils in moderation is not dangerous, and there’s no need to panic.
Dr. Jing-Ke Weng, a professor of chemistry and bioengineering, explains that problems can arise when people eat too much oil from just one source.
He recommends using different kinds of oils, eating a variety of foods, and avoiding ultra-processed foods like chips and fast food.
Dr. Darin Detwiler, a food policy expert, agrees. He says it’s not a good idea to use the same oil all the time. Mixing things up helps avoid potential health issues.
Seed oils, like canola, sunflower, soybean, corn, and safflower oil, contain healthy fats called polyunsaturated fats. These include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help lower bad cholesterol and support heart health.
Some people worry that too much omega-6 might cause inflammation in the body, but Dr. Weng says the science isn’t clear on that. “It’s a very complex system with many factors involved,” he says.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a political figure, has made seed oils a big issue in his health campaign. He calls them one of the most unhealthy ingredients in food and wants companies to switch to beef tallow instead.
Some businesses are responding. For example, salad chain Sweetgreen recently offered a seed-oil-free menu and advertised using avocado oil for their fries.
Still, many scientists say there’s no strong proof that seed oils cause disease. In fact, focusing too much on seed oils might distract from more serious problems like eating too much sugar and ultra-processed food.
Animal fats like beef tallow do have some nutrients, but they also contain a lot of saturated fat, which can build up in the arteries and raise the risk of heart disease. “Switching from vegetable oil to tallow may actually increase health risks,” Dr. Weng warns.
Dr. Detwiler says that while it’s good to ask questions and stay informed, we should be careful about jumping to conclusions. Misinformation can lead to public fear and confusion.
He suggests people learn about the different types of cooking oils, their smoke points, and how to use them safely. And for children, the elderly, or those with health conditions, it’s best to check with a doctor or dietitian before making big diet changes.
Bottom line? Eat a mix of healthy foods, limit processed items, and don’t rely too heavily on one type of oil. Moderation is the key.
If you care about health, please read studies about how Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and the best time to take vitamins to prevent heart disease.
For more health information, please see recent studies about plant nutrients that could help reduce high blood pressure, and these antioxidants could help reduce dementia risk.
Source: Northeastern University.
