The Dangers of Seed Oils

Recipe
Written By Debra Koelsch

Seed oils. They are in processed food, baby formula, restaurant food, beverages, gluten-free packaged food, and yes, even organic food. These are polyunsaturated fats, also known as (PUFAs). Why are these unhealthy?

  • They are highly processed

  • They are mass produced

  • They use low quality ingredients

  • They are inflammatory

  • They are often stored in plastic

  • They are often times diluted with cheaper oils

  • They contain GMOs (genetically modified organisms)

  • They are already rancid from the manufacturing process

  • The ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 is too high

WHICH OILS SHOULD I AVOID?

REFINED VEGETABLE OILS

  • Cottonseed Oil

  • Canola Oil

  • Soybean Oil

  • Sunflower Oil

  • Peanut Oil

  • Mixtures or blends of different oils

There are some polyunsatured fats that can be used with caution. These are oils you want to use sparingly. If you are using these, make sure they are single-sourced, organic, and cold-pressed. Choose a fresher oil by checking the expiration date. Make sure it is stored in glass and not plastic, and that it is in a dark colored bottle. They should be unrefined, and have no heat used during the manufacturing process. These fats will absorb chemicals found in plastic containers. These fats will store toxins. The body stores toxins in fat cells. (This is one reason why it is important to choose organic meat!) Healthy polyunsatured fats include:

  • Walnut Oil

  • Fish Oil

  • Hemp Seed Oil

  • Flaxseed Oil

  • High Oleic Sunflower Oil

  • Sustainably Sourced Palm Oil

If you are using oil, and you see it start to smoke… it has become rancid. Discard and start over. This oil is now highly toxic. it is always better to consume a whole food rather than an oil. (i.e. walnuts vs. walnut oil)

WHICH OILS SHOULD I USE?

  • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is great for meals that require no heat (like salads). Olive oil is best served cold or used with extremely low heat.

  • Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is great for cooking with high heat, and for baking.

  • Avocado Oil

Avocado Oil is also great for high heat cooking. Great for stir fry, and delicious with meals containing seafood.

  • Animal Fats

Grass-fed, grass-finished beef tallow, duck fat, bacon fat, butter, or ghee are wonderful for making homemade sweet potato fries or chicken wings!


Debra Koelsch
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