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Seed oils - the heart healthy alternative?

In recent years, seed oils have become increasingly popular, almost totally replacing the natural animal based fats like butter, lard and tallow that were used before. While these oils have been touted as being a healthy way to get your essential fatty acids, there is a lot of evidence that suggests consuming seed oils can be dangerous and lead to serious health issues.


Here are some seed oils (otherwise known as vegetable oils):


1. Canola oil

2. Cottonseed oil

3. Corn oil

4. Sunflower oil

5. Soybean oil

6. Safflower oil

7. Grapeseed oil

8. Rice bran oil

9. Palm oil

10. Peanut oil











The process of making highly processed seed oils involves a number of steps, including extraction, refining, and bleaching. In the extraction process, the oil is extracted from the seeds using a chemical process, such as hexane. The oil is then refined to remove any impurities and to improve the flavor and color. Finally, the oil is bleached to further refine the color and remove any remaining impurities. This process can strip the oil of beneficial nutrients, leaving it with a higher concentration of unhealthy fats.


Seed oils, especially those that are processed, are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can lead to inflammation. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of illnesses and diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Additionally, consuming too much omega-6 fatty acids can cause an imbalance in the ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the body, which can further exacerbate inflammation.


Certain seed oils, such as cottonseed oil, have a high level of trans fats, which can cause further health problems. Trans fats, also known as partially hydrogenated oils, have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Trans fats are created when hydrogen is added to vegetable oils, which makes them more stable and able to last longer on store shelves. However, this process also creates trans fats, which are known to raise LDL cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. Trans fats have been banned in many countries, as well as in some US states, due to their health risks. It is important to check food labels to make sure that a product does not contain trans fats. Additionally, foods that contain partially hydrogenated oils should be avoided, as they contain trans fats.


Here are some foods that contain seed oils:


1. Margarine and spreadable butter

2. Store-bought baked goods

3. Packaged snacks, crisps and chips

4. Fried foods

5. Non-dairy creamers

6. Processed meats

7. Salad dressings

8. Mayonnaise

9. Microwave popcorn

10. Vegetable Shortening


Here are some healthy alternatives to seed oils


1. Extra-virgin olive oil

2. Avocado oil

3. Coconut oil

4. Flaxseed oil

5. Walnut oil

6. Sesame oil

7. Almond oil

8. Hemp oil

9. Pumpkin seed oil

10. Macadamia nut oil



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