Vegetable oils are ubiquitous in the modern diet. They’re used in everything from salad dressings to deep frying and many people believe them to be healthy. However, the truth is that vegetable oils are extremely unhealthy and can cause a number of serious health problems.
Here are 5 reasons why you should stop using vegetable oils:
1. They are high in Omega-6 fatty acids, which have been linked to inflammation, heart disease and cancer. In fact, some studies suggest that elevated intakes of omega-6 fatty acids may play a role in complex regional pain syndrome. Another serious health problem attributed to Omega-6 fatty acids is NAFLD – non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. 30 -40% of Americans have NAFLD and vegetable oils rich in Omega-6 fatty acids are thought to be one of the main contributors.
2. They are pro-inflammatory. The omega-6 fatty acids in vegetable oils promote inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a key driver of many chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer and arthritis.
3. They can promote weight gain because they are high in calories and fat, both of which can contribute to weight gain. In fact, one study found that people who used vegetable oils had a higher body mass index (BMI) than those who didn’t use them.
4. They can damage your cardiovascular health by damaging the endothelium, the lining of your blood vessels. This can lead to inflammation and atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque in your arteries that can eventually lead to a heart attack or stroke.
5. They contain harmful substances that can disrupt your hormones. For example, soybean oil and corn oil contain phytoestrogens, plant-based estrogens that can mimic the hormone estrogen in your body. This can lead to a number of health problems, including an increased risk of breast cancer.
So, if you’re looking to improve your health, it’s time to ditch the vegetable oil and switch to a healthier option. Olive oil, avocado oil or coconut oil are all great choices.