We’re talking today about seed oils because although they’re something we might overlook on a daily basis, they can affect our health more than we realize!
Maybe you’ve tried different diets, supplements, or wellness routines, only to find they haven’t give you the energy you hoped for. Or perhaps you’ve followed the best health advice and haven’t found the results you hoped for.
One area we often overlook is the oils we cook with.
So, in this article, we’ll explore why seed oils are bad for you and which options may be better for cooking. We’ll keep it practical so you can take charge of your health.
Understanding Seed Oils and Why They Matter
When we talk about seed oils, we refer to oils extracted from seeds. These oils have found their way into almost every corner of the modern diet. They’re used in:
- salad dressings
- cooking sprays
- fried foods
- baked goods
- packaged snacks
But while they’re incredibly common, seed oils might not be the best choice for a healthy lifestyle.
The reason is that seed oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids. While they’re technically essential for our health, too much can lead to unwanted problems that sap our energy and vitality.
The problem isn’t with omega-6 itself but rather with how much we’re getting and how out of balance it becomes compared to omega-3 fatty acids – the healthy fats found in foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed.
A greater amount of omega-6 than omega-3 can contribute to inflammation in your body. And inflammation has been linked to health concerns such as heart disease, arthritis, and even certain mood disorders.
Since seed oils are the biggest source of omega-6 in a standard diet, reducing them can help bring your overall health back into balance.
Seed Oils to Avoid for Better Health
Reducing seed oils in your diet doesn’t mean eliminating all fats!
It just means being mindful of which oils you’re choosing. Here are just a few common seed oils that are high in omega-6 and that you may want to avoid for a healthier, lower-inflammatory diet:
- Soybean oil
- Corn oil
- Canola oil
- Peanut oil
- Cottonseed oil
- Safflower oil
These seed oils (and others) have a strong presence in the average diet, especially in snacks and processed foods.
Switching to healthier options may require extra attention as you shop, but the potential benefits for your energy, mood, and overall health can be worth it.
Here are two questions we often get asked at LifeMed:
Is Sunflower Oil Inflammatory?
Sunflower oil is one of the most popular seed oils – often because it has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it easy to cook with.
However, sunflower oil contains a high amount of omega-6 fatty acids. So, while it may seem harmless or even “healthier” compared to some alternatives, its omega-6 content can promote inflammation if it’s a regular part of your diet.
Is Olive Oil a Seed Oil?
You might wonder if olive oil falls into the same category as the oils we’ve discussed. The good news is that olive oil is not a seed oil! Instead, it’s a fruit oil made from pressing olives.
Olive oil – especially extra virgin olive oil – is low in omega-6 and high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation.
Using olive oil as a primary cooking oil is a much healthier choice, especially if you’re trying to cut back on omega-6 and increase anti-inflammatory foods in your diet.
Olive oil’s unique nutrient profile has been shown to support heart health, cognitive function, and even joint health, making it a great alternative. (Conversely, inflammation in your body leads to many chronic conditions.)
Best Oil for Cooking: Healthier Options to Try
If you’re ready to make a change, here are some alternatives that offer a better balance of omega-6 and omega-3, have beneficial fats, and can help reduce inflammation:
Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for low to medium-heat cooking, salad dressings, and drizzling over foods.
Avocado oil is high in monounsaturated fats. It’s great for high-heat cooking, and offers a buttery flavor.
Coconut oil is a good option for high-heat cooking; it can be easier to digest and offer quick energy.
Ghee (clarified butter) has a high smoke point and can be used for high-heat cooking.
Flaxseed oil is not suitable for cooking, but because it’s rich in omega-3, it can be added to dressings or smoothies.
Starting small with these healthier options can help you enjoy a more balanced fat intake.
Anti-Inflammatory Oils: Supporting Health and Wellness
Not all fats are created equal, as we’ve seen! While seed oils can be problematic due to their high omega-6 content, anti-inflammatory oils can provide you with essential nutrients and support your body’s natural ability to manage inflammation.
Making these swaps can support a variety of health benefits, including joint health, heart health, and even mood stability. Choosing anti-inflammatory oils can be a positive, straightforward step toward feeling more like yourself.
The Key is Balance
While there’s strong support for limiting omega-6-rich oils, some believe that the real problem isn’t the oils themselves but rather the quantity we consume. After all, our bodies do need a certain amount of omega-6 fats; it’s just that most of us are getting far too much compared to omega-3s.
Some argue that more research is needed on seed oils and inflammation. If you’re curious and want to experiment with reducing seed oils in your diet, that’s a choice only you can make. Listening to your body, making choices that feel right for your lifestyle and health goals, and seeing the results can be the best approach.
Why Are Seed Oils Bad for You?
For many people, the answer lies in their high omega-6 content, which can contribute to inflammation that impacts everything from heart health to mental well-being. By reducing these oils and choosing healthier oils like olive, avocado, and coconut, you can take a simple but powerful step toward better balance and health. Remember, each small change adds up – start where you can and celebrate every step toward a healthier you!
Get Expert Nutrition Advice from LifeMed to Reduce Seed Oils in Your Diet
LifeMed Institutes understands that nutrition impacts nearly every aspect of your health and well-being. Our comprehensive Nutritional Services offer personalized coaching, including goal planning, food sensitivity assessments, and tailored meal plans to guide you toward healthier eating habits.
With expert support, LifeMed can help you eliminate inflammatory seed oils from your diet and provide actionable steps, such as grocery lists and GI repair plans, to support lasting wellness.
Learn more about how reducing seed oils in your diet can lead to lasting health and vitality!
