The negative side of seed oils
On February 11 of this year, in my blog post Where do I begin my fat loss journey?, I stated, “Remove industrial seed oils” as the first step when beginning a fat loss journey. Seed oils, commonly used in cooking and food preparation, may seem innocent, but beneath their widespread use lies a potential threat to health. While some seed oils may have nutritional benefits, others pose risks that health-conscious individuals, like you, should be aware of.
1. Omega-6 Fatty Acids Imbalance:
Many seed oils, such as canola, soybean, corn, and sunflower oil, are high in omega-6 fatty acids. We need omega-6 fatty acids in our diet, however, consuming these seed oils can create an imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. This imbalance can lead to various chronic diseases.
2. Inflammatory Response:
The inflammatory response is a vital part of the body’s defense mechanism against harmful stimuli, i.e. seed oils. Excessive consumption of seed oils may contribute to chronic inflammation, potentially leading to conditions like arthritis, hardening of the arteries, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders.
3. Oxidative Stress:
Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Seed oils are prone to oxidation due to their high polyunsaturated fat content. This oxidation can produce free radicals, thus disrupting the balance with antioxidants, contributing to oxidative stress in the body, which has been associated with aging and various diseases.
4. Unstable at High Temperatures:
Some seed oils break down and produce harmful compounds when exposed to high temperatures during cooking. This can result in the formation of free radicals, again disrupting the balance with antioxidants, and toxic byproducts that may negatively impact health.
5. Processed and Refined Nature:
Seeds oils undergo extensive industrial and chemical process where they are heated, refined, introduced with chemical additives, bleached and deodorized in order to make them usable. These refined oils may lack the health benefits found in less processed alternatives like avocado, coconut and olive oils.
6. Contribution to Obesity:
High consumption of seed oils, particularly found in highly processed packaged and fast foods, has been linked to weight gain and obesity. The imbalanced omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid profile and calorie density of these oils can contribute to excess calorie intake.
7. Impact on Hormones:
Seed oils may influence hormone production and balance in the body. Some studies suggest a connection between excessive omega-6 intake and disruptions in hormonal regulation, potentially affecting reproductive and metabolic health.
While not all seed oils are harmful, it's crucial to be mindful of the types and amounts consumed. Opting for oils with a better balance of fatty acids, such as olive oil or avocado oil, can contribute to a healthier diet. As a health coach, educating clients about the potential dangers of certain seed oils empowers them to make informed choices for their well-being.
