They Say We Are Being Poisoned

You may have heard that seed oils are poisoning Americans. If you’re like me, you might wonder why these oils, which seem to come from generally healthy sources, are often considered toxic.

Seed oils are ubiquitous in our diets, hidden in everyday items like salad dressings, chips, crackers, and baked goods. They are also found in margarine, which is frequently used as a butter substitute, and in fast foods, like fried chicken and french fries. Seed oils are often used due to their affordability and high smoke point.

Even seemingly healthy options like granola bars and breakfast cereals can contain seed oils, making them a sneaky, unexpected part of your meals.

It’s important to remember that not all oils are created equal, and (spoiler alert) if seed oils are in fact toxic, NOT every seed oil is detrimental. Some oils offer significant health benefits and are nutritional powerhouses that can enhance our well-being. Furthermore, there are non-seed oils (like olive oil) that can serve as excellent options to incorporate into your dietary routine.

So, let’s look at six things you need to know about seed oils.

6 Things You Need to Know About Seed Oils

1. What are seed oils?

Seed oils are vegetable oils that come from seeds. Seed oils, often marketed under the guise of “vegetable oils,” are derived from sources like corn, soy, cottonseed, safflower, sunflower, grapeseed, and canola. Despite their seemingly healthy names, these oils undergo extensive industrial processing, including high heat and chemical solvents, to become shelf-stable. This process strips them of beneficial nutrients and results in oils that are fragile and prone to oxidation when heated. Consuming these oils regularly can contribute to a host of health issues, from insulin resistance to heart disease.

Seed oils are a new industrial addition to our diets in the last century. Before refined seed oils were created, people used butter, lard, and tallow for cooking and in some areas of the world olive and hemp oil.  Seed oils are extracted through cleaning, grinding, and pressing seeds, often using heat and solvents like hexane for efficiency. This process can alter nutritional profiles and create harmful compounds.

Certain seed oils, such as hemp and flaxseed, are produced through a method known as cold pressing. This technique preserves the nutritional value of the oil, making these oils distinctly different from many other seed oils that are often regarded as harmful.

2. They Are Refined and Processed

The extraction and production of seed oils typically involves high temperatures and the use of the chemical solvent hexane. This process can eliminate beneficial nutrients, such as antioxidants and phospholipids, while introducing potentially harmful substances. For instance, the refining process may result in the creation of trans fats, which are well-known contributors to cardiovascular diseases. These oils have only become widely used in the last century, thanks to technological advancements.

To enhance their appearance and eliminate odors, various chemicals are added to refined and processed seed oils. Commonly used chemicals in this procedure include phosphoric acid for degumming (removing impurities), bleaching agents to eliminate color, and steam during deodorization to remove odor molecules.

Oxidative stress happens when there’s an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, potentially causing cell and tissue damage. This imbalance can contribute to aging and various health issues. When seed oils undergo processing, they can oxidize, leading to the production of harmful compounds. This oxidation can contribute to oxidative stress in the body, a condition linked to aging and numerous chronic diseases. Reducing oxidative stress is a key component of maintaining overall health and wellness.

3. Often Made from Genetically Modified Sources

Many seed oils, such as soybean, canola, corn, and cottonseed, are often derived from genetically modified (GMO) crops, designed to enhance yield and resistance, impacting our health and environment.

This is a concern because the widespread use of GMO crops can lead to diminished biodiversity, increased pesticide use, and very likely health risks for humans. Additionally, reliance on these crops may adversely affect sustainable farming practices and undermine the ability to produce nutritious, life-supporting agricultural products.

4. Inflammatory Effects on the Heart Health

Recent research suggests that certain seed oils, such as those high in omega-6 fatty acids, may have inflammatory effects on the heart. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that excessive consumption of these oils can disrupt the balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, potentially leading to increased inflammation. Personal stories from individuals who have adjusted their diets to reduce seed oil intake often highlight improvements in heart health and overall well-being.

5. They Are Calorie-Dense

While calorie-dense, processed seed oils lack essential nutrients, offering minimal health benefits. This imbalance can lead to excessive calorie intake without nourishment, potentially contributing to weight gain and associated health issues.

6. The Fabric of our Very Nutrition has Been Altered

In recent decades, the surge in seed oil consumption has paralleled rising health concerns. Historically, diets favored whole foods and natural fats like olive oil and butter. Reflecting on these shifts can inspire a return to balanced eating, emphasizing minimally processed, nutrient-rich foods for a healthier lifestyle.

Healthy alternatives to processed seed oils include extra virgin olive oil, known for its heart-friendly monounsaturated fats. Coconut oil offers a rich source of medium-chain triglycerides, while avocado oil provides a mild flavor and high smoke point. Additionally, cold press hemp oil is a nutritious option packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, promoting a balanced diet. Flaxseed oil is another great choice, rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which supports heart health. Butter and ghee, natural fats, can also enhance flavor and health.

Key Take Aways

Since seed oils have become prevalent in our diets over the last century and are highly refined and processed, and these oils contribute to cell and tissue damage that causes chronic disease and inflammation. While these calorie-dense oils offer minimal nutrients, contrasting with traditional diets rich in whole foods and natural fats like olive oil and butter.

Our opinion is that one can intentionally move away from the use of seed oils by avoid any processes or fast food. And adding their own fats and oils to foods. Essentially we want to choose oils that are helpful to maintaining satiety and our health. And most seed oils cause more harm that good.

Incorporating healthier alternatives like extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil can improve heart health and overall well-being by emphasizing a balanced, nutrient-rich lifestyle. Additionally, hemp oil emerges as a great option due to its rich profile of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with beneficial antioxidants. This makes hemp oil not only a nutritious substitute but also a versatile ingredient that can enhance various dishes, contributing to a more health-conscious diet