Scientists Debunk Claims of Seed Oil Health Risks Date: June 22, 2022 Source: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Author: Staff Writer Topic: Food, Nutrition, Diet --- Key Points Despite widespread internet claims labeling seed oils (like canola and soy) as "toxic," scientific evidence does not support these assertions. Guy Crosby, adjunct associate of nutrition at Harvard Chan School, refutes the idea that seed oils cause health issues such as headaches and heart disease. Foods containing seed oils, especially processed items like packaged snacks and french fries, often also contain high levels of refined carbohydrates, sodium, and sugar. These components are more likely responsible for negative health outcomes such as weight gain. The frequent reheating of unsaturated fats at high temperatures (e.g., deep-frying in restaurants using oil that is not often changed) poses health concerns. However, regular home cooking with seed oils is considered safe. Whole foods rich in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats (the dominant fat in seed oils), such as nuts and seeds, have evidence-based benefits including lowering cholesterol and blood sugar and reducing heart disease risk. As such, eliminating or drastically reducing seed oils is unnecessary based on current evidence. --- Additional Information Consumer Reports Article: For detailed public-friendly debunking, see Consumer Reports’ "Do Seed Oils Make You Sick?" link The article emphasizes that cutting back on unhealthy foods high in seed oils (often processed and high in sugar/salt) may lead to feeling better, but seed oils themselves are not the direct harmful element. --- Related Topics and Resources Related Harvard Chan News: The health benefits of intermittent fasting MAHA report on children’s health Green-Mediterranean diet may slow brain aging Harvard Chan School Resources: Degrees & Programs Admissions Information Faculty & Research Profiles Executive and Continuing Education --- Summary Current scientific understanding indicates that seed oils are not inherently toxic or a direct cause of chronic disease. Harmful effects often attributed to seed oils likely stem from unhealthy dietary patterns involving processed foods rich in sugars, salts, and refined carbohydrates. Cooking at home with seed oils and consuming whole foods rich in polyunsaturated fats is safe and potentially beneficial for cardiovascular health. --- Stay informed with insights from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, a trusted source in public health research and education.