Unveiling the Hidden Dangers: The Truth About Seed Oils

Seed oils have been causing quite a stir in the nutritional world. 

You might think how harmless can a seed be?  But seed oils are nothing like their original selves.  These seemingly innocent oils have been sneaking their way into our diets, even touted as “healthy options,” but this is not the truth!

Seed oils are an umbrella term for oils extracted from the seeds of plants such as sunflower, canola, cotton seed, but also include vegetable oils, safflower oil, soybean oil and peanut oil. 

The problem with seed oils lies in their processing.  These oils undergo intense refining and processing methods that strip away their natural nutrients.  Many of these oils are extracted using hexanes, a toxic chemical solvent that has been deemed carcinogenic. 

Furthermore, seed oils are notorious for their pro-inflammatory properties.  They can wreak havoc on our bodies, causing inflammation that can contribute to a myriad of health issues, including heart disease. 

Not only are they pro-inflammatory, they also have a sinister effect on our blood sugar levels.  Now, many of us know how to avoid sugar and excessive starch, but did we all know that seed oils can send our blood sugar on a roller coaster ride?  Consuming seed oils can lead to insulin resistance, making us metabolically unfit. 

Seed oils have been touted as heart-healthy options, but this is where the deception lies.  While seed oils may not fill up our arteries with blood fats, they do far more insidious damage.  The inflammation they cause and their impact on blood sugar make them a ticking time bomb for heart disease. 

When it comes to cooking oils, opt for healthier choices like Avocado oil or grass-fed butter.  These options not only taste delicious but also come with a host of health benefits. 

To a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil is a fantastic choice, but remember to use it for low-heat cooking only under 250 degrees.  Coconut oil is another excellent option for low-heat cooking, thanks to its stable structure. 

Also, beware of hidden sources of seed oils.  If we start reading labels, we will find these oils in bags of chips and snacks, and also in store-bought salad dressing.  Finally, be mindful of restaurants, they use seed oils because they are cheaper to purchase, especially in bulk.  I like to eat at restaurants from time to time, but a home cooked meal is much healthier most of the time.