Chapters
00:00 - Intro
0:56 - Seed Oils are Guilty of...
1:27 - Where Did They Come From?
2:40 - 1st Reason
3:25 - Its Increasing Because
3:52 - Omega 3 and Omega 6
4:09 - Harvard and Guilt by Association
5:36 - 2nd Reason
6:20 - The Ratio Problem
6:44 - 4 Things to Do

What are Seed Oils?

Seed oils are extracted from the seeds of plants such as sunflowers, soybeans, corn, and canola. While they contain polyunsaturated fats, which can be beneficial in moderation, not all seed oils are created equal. Some, like soybean and corn oil, are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which, when consumed in excess, may contribute to inflammation.

How are Seed Oils Made?

Once extracted, seed oils may undergo further refining and processing to remove impurities, improve stability, and enhance flavor and color. Common refining processes include degumming, neutralization, bleaching, and deodorization.

Seed Oil Alternatives

Fortunately, there are healthier alternatives to seed oils available. Extra virgin olive oil, renowned for its rich flavor and high levels of monounsaturated fats, is a great option for cooking and dressing salads. Avocado oil, with its mild taste and high smoke point, is another excellent choice for cooking at high temperatures.

Which Foods Have Seed Oil?

Many processed foods, including packaged snacks, fried foods, salad dressings, margarine, mayonnaise, and baked goods, contain seed oils as ingredients. Some canned foods, including canned meats, fish, and vegetables, may contain seed oils as preservatives or flavor enhancers.

Omega-3 vs Omega-6

High omega-6 fatty acids and low omega-3 fatty acids can disrupt the delicate balance between these two types of nutrients, leading to increased inflammation. Ideally, the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the diet should be balanced, but we can be disproportionately higher in omega-6 fatty acids due to the widespread use of seed oils.


Which Oils are Considered Seed Oils?

Canola oil, corn, cottonseed, sunflower, soybean, safflower, grapeseed, and rice bran oil. 

Why is Omega-3 Important?

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly those found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines (EPA and DHA), have potent anti-inflammatory effects. They help to balance the body's inflammatory response, reducing  inflammation.