Debate heats up on seed oils as potential contributors to health issues
Americans are becoming increasingly aware of the ingredients in their food as part of the Make America Healthy Again movement. Seed oils, which are plant-based cooking oils commonly used in processed and packaged foods, have come under scrutiny by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as potentially harmful to health. While some seed oils like sesame seed oil, peanut oil, and flax oils have health benefits, others have been labeled as the “hateful eight seed oils” by board-certified family physician Dr. Cate Shanahan.
The “hateful eight” seed oils to avoid include corn, canola, cotton seed, soy, sunflower, safflower, rice bran, and grape seed oils. These oils are processed using high heat and pressure, leading to the presence of a neurotoxin called hexane. Additionally, the polyunsaturated fatty acids in these oils can break down and turn into toxins when exposed to heat during cooking.
Dr. Shanahan emphasizes that refining these oils removes important nutrients like choline, lecithin, and phospholipids, which are essential for brain function, cellular division, and overall health. These harmful seed oils are commonly found in processed junk food, restaurant dishes, and even hospital meals, making it important for consumers to read ingredient labels and choose wholesome options.
While some health agencies like the American Heart Association (AHA) argue that there is no reason to avoid seed oils and plenty of reasons to consume them, others in the Make America Healthy Again movement disagree. They believe that overconsumption of ultraprocessed foods containing harmful ingredients like high-fructose corn syrup, added sugar, and sodium is a bigger concern for health.
Dr. Christopher Gardner, a nutrition scientist at Stanford University School of Medicine, agrees that demonizing seed oils may not be necessary and that they should not be feared. Instead, the focus should be on choosing whole, nutrient-dense foods and avoiding ultraprocessed products that may contain harmful additives.
As Americans continue to prioritize their health and well-being, understanding the role of seed oils in their diet and making informed choices about the foods they consume will be crucial in achieving optimal health and longevity.
