24
Apr
Myth 6 - Healthy Seeds, Nuts & Vegetable Oils
Reading time - 3 mins
Some studies show that polyunsaturated fats lower your risk of heart disease. For this reason, many experts have recommended we increase our consumption of vegetable oils like soybean, sunflower, canola and corn oil.
However, it is important to realize that there are different types of polyunsaturated fats, mainly Omega-3s and Omega-6s.
While we get Omega-3s from fish, coconut oil and grass-fed animal fats, the main sources of Omega-6 fatty acids are processed seed and vegetable oils. We need to get Omega-3s and Omega-6s in a certain balance. Most people are eating too little Omega-3 and way too much Omega-6.
Studies show that excess Omega-6 fatty acids can increase inflammation in the body, which is known to play a role in many serious diseases and weight gain.
If you want to lower your risk of disease and improve your physique you need to eat Omega-3s and reduce or avoid the processed seed and vegetable oils. It’s important to keep in mind that this does NOT apply to other plant oils like avocado and olive oil, which are low in Omega-6 and incredibly healthy.
Bottom Line
Excess consumption of processed seed and vegetable oil can increase inflammation. This may increase your risk of weight gain and chronic disease. You are better off eating whole nuts and seeds rather than using processed oils. Stick to olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil and grass fed butter.
Read more in the 'Nutrition Myths Busted' Series
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