The So Called Healthy Fat Dr Berg Avoids

Dr. Eric Berg 12/23/2024

We all know that a healthy diet includes healthy fats. But did you know that not all fats are created equal? This is especially true when talking about soybean oil dangers.

Soybean oil has become incredibly common. In fact, it's difficult to find foods at the grocery store that don't contain this supposedly "healthy" fat. You'll find soybean oil lurking in most salad dressings (even the "healthy" ones.), breads, chips, cookies, and more.

You might be wondering how soybean oil became so pervasive. Soybeans are a huge crop in the United States. Because it’s inexpensive to produce, soybean oil has become a go-to oil for food manufacturers and restaurants. However, its affordability comes at a price.

The Hidden Dangers of Soy Oil

Let’s be blunt: the dangers of soybean oil are very real. Soybean oil is linked to several health risks due to its high linoleic acid content and GMO production processes.

Let's examine these hidden dangers to understand how soybean oil can negatively impact your health.

Weight Gain and Fatty Liver Disease

You’ve probably heard about the negative metabolic effects of sugar. But did you know some studies show that soybean oil consumption can be even worse than sugar when it comes to causing excess weight and a fatty liver?

Research has shown that soybean oil in the average American diet can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, experiencing insulin resistance, and can contribute to liver damage and inflammation.

This inflammation isn’t limited to your liver – it also affects your heart and blood vessels. Soybean oil may be a contributing factor to heart disease due to its inflammatory effects on the cardiovascular system.

GMOs and the Dangers of Soy Oil

Over the last several decades, there’s been growing concern about genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, in our food supply. Unfortunately, the majority of soybean oil is derived from genetically modified soybeans.

GMO soybeans are typically engineered to resist herbicides, allowing farmers to use greater quantities of these chemicals on their crops without harming the plants.

This process leads to an increased presence of harmful herbicides in our environment and may pose dangers of soy oil for consumers.

While there’s still much debate regarding the long-term impact of GMOs on human health, there are some legitimate concerns regarding their potential contribution to a number of health problems, including:

Allergies.
Antibiotic Resistance.
Hormonal Imbalances.

Because much of the scientific research regarding GMOs is relatively new, it's often difficult to ascertain the long-term consequences of consuming these products.

More research is needed to fully understand how consuming GMO soybean oil can affect neurological conditions and other aspects of human health.

putting MCT oil in bowl

Soybean Oil and Inflammation

One of the most insidious dangers of soy oil lies in the way it contributes to inflammation throughout the body. It’s a rich source of omega-6 fatty acids, which are important for many bodily processes but are harmful when consumed in excess.

The dangers of soy oil are exacerbated by the imbalance of omega-6s and omega-3s present in many diets.

Our bodies need a healthy balance of omega-6 fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids. However, the typical Western diet, often a diet high in processed foods, contains far too many omega-6s and not nearly enough omega-3s.

This imbalance sets the stage for chronic inflammation, which contributes to a long list of health problems like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancers, arthritis, and more.

Studies on mice fed a diet high in soybean oil showed an increase in inflammation and metabolic changes. These diets high in soybean oil led to negative effects on the mice's overall health, indicating potential risks for humans consuming large amounts of soybean oil.

While more research is needed to determine the direct correlation between a high soybean oil diet and its effects on human health, these initial findings raise concerns.

What are the Best Oils to Use?

Now that you understand the dangers of soy oil, you might be wondering about healthier alternatives. What is a good option if you're looking to replace soybean oil in your cooking?

Look for oils rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, both of which offer several health benefits.

Some heart-healthy oils to use include:

Olive Oil
Avocado Oil
Coconut Oil

These oils contain a good source of essential fatty acids and have a high smoke point, making them suitable for various cooking methods. When choosing any type of oil – even “healthy” oils like olive oil – look for those that are:

Extra Virgin
Cold Pressed
Organic

These labels indicate minimal processing and a higher likelihood of retaining beneficial nutrients. The American Heart Association recommends incorporating a wide variety of healthy fats into your diet while limiting saturated and trans fats.

Remember, a balanced oil diet contributes to proper brain function, energy metabolism, and overall well-being.

Natural peanut butter

Unveiling Soy Oil Risks

Soy oil, commonly found in processed foods and cooking oils, can be high in omega-6 fatty acids, which, in excess, may contribute to inflammation and various health issues. Opting for healthier alternatives like olive oil or coconut oil can mitigate these risks.

Meanwhile, peanut butter fat bombs offer a delicious and nutritious alternative.

Made from natural peanut butter and coconut oil, these fat bombs provide a satisfying treat packed with healthy fats and protein, perfect for those looking to avoid soy oil while enjoying a guilt-free snack.

By making informed choices, you can prioritize your health without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Conclusion

You've heard the saying, "You are what you eat." That statement rings true when it comes to soybean oil dangers. The American Heart Association recommends being mindful of the oils you consume, as they can significantly impact your health.

While soybean oil is a common ingredient in many processed and packaged foods, being aware of its potential downsides empowers you to make healthier choices.

There are healthier oils that you can enjoy as part of a nutritious diet. And the more educated you are about the dangers of soy oil, the easier it becomes to make healthier choices at the grocery store and when eating out at restaurants.

By opting for heart-healthy alternatives and being conscious of your daily calories from fat sources, you can strive for a balanced diet that promotes well-being.