Why Seed Oils Can Be Detrimental to Your Health

In the realm of functional nutrition, understanding the foods we consume is key to unlocking better health. One dietary element that often flies under the radar is seed oils. Commonly found in processed foods and marketed as "healthy," oils like soybean, corn, sunflower, and canola may be anything but beneficial.

Seed oils are rich in omega-6 fatty acids, which, when consumed in excess, can disrupt the delicate balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fats in the body. This imbalance often triggers chronic inflammation, a root cause of many health issues, including heart disease, arthritis, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.

The problem isn’t omega-6 itself—it’s an essential fatty acid the body needs. The issue arises when omega-6 consumption significantly outweighs omega-3 intake, as is common in the modern Western diet. The optimal omega 6 to omega 3 ratio is 1:1 to 4:1, however this ratio in the Standard American Diet (the SAD Diet) is often times 25:1 or even 30:1. This imbalance can fuel oxidative stress, damaging cells and tissues over time.

Additionally, seed oils are highly processed, often extracted using heat and chemical solvents. This process can produce harmful byproducts, including trans fats and free radicals, which further contribute to inflammation and cellular damage. The lack of stability in these oils also makes them prone to oxidation when exposed to light or heat, compounding their harmful effects when used for cooking.

To support optimal health, functional nutrition emphasizes reducing processed foods and replacing seed oils with healthier fat sources like extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, and grass fed ghee. These fats provide anti-inflammatory benefits and essential nutrients without the risks posed by heavily processed seed oils.

Choosing whole, unprocessed foods and cooking with stable, nutrient-rich oils can help restore balance, reduce inflammation, and protect both your body and brain. By making these simple changes, you can take a powerful step toward vibrant health and longevity.

Let food be your foundation, and let the oils you consume nourish you—not harm you.