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New York, Jun 7: A new controversy is simmering in the world of nutrition as fitness experts shift their focus from sugar and soda to a less-discussed dietary staple—seed oils. Norwegian fitness coach Lars Meidell, founder of Reinvented AS and a social media influencer with 1.3 million Instagram followers, recently went viral after calling seed oils the “worst thing to put in your body,” ranking them above cola, fried chicken, and sugar.
“These oils are hidden in everything you eat,” Meidell warned in his video, claiming that seed oils such as sunflower, canola, corn, and soybean oil are cheap, heavily processed, and rich in unstable Omega-6 fats. According to Meidell, these oils cause oxidative stress, which he links to hormonal imbalance, heart disease, and even cancer.
The claim has reignited debate among health circles. The National Library of Medicine defines oxidative stress as an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s ability to neutralize them, which can potentially lead to cell and tissue damage.
Dr. Mark Hyman, founder of the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Functional Medicine, echoed some of these concerns, recommending that people prioritize fats from whole food sources like avocados, coconuts, nuts, seeds, and Omega-3s from fish, as well as minimally processed extra virgin olive oil. He also highlighted that many seed oils are derived from genetically modified crops and undergo industrial processing, including oxidation, bleaching, and solvent extraction, which he believes raises safety questions.
The Scientific Consensus: Are Seed Oils Really Harmful?
Despite these warnings, mainstream nutrition science presents a different picture. Decades of research indicate that consuming seed oils is actually associated with better health outcomes. Studies have shown that higher intake of Omega-6 fatty acids, the main component of seed oils, is linked to reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and premature death. Clinical trials consistently demonstrate that replacing saturated fats with seed oils lowers LDL cholesterol and cardiovascular risk.
Concerns about inflammation from Omega-6 fats are also challenged by experts. While some argue that an imbalance between Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids could contribute to inflammation, large-scale studies have found no significant effect on inflammatory markers in the blood from increased seed oil consumption. Both Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats are essential for health, and seed oils, when consumed as part of a balanced diet, do not appear to increase the risk of chronic inflammation or disease.
Regarding processing, food scientists note that while seed oils undergo refining, the residues from solvents like hexane are negligible and not considered a health risk. Additionally, the main concern with seed oils often stems from their prevalence in ultra-processed foods, which are linked to health problems due to multiple factors beyond just the oils themselves.
What Should Consumers Do?
Experts recommend moderation and variety. Seed oils can be safely included in a healthy diet, especially when balanced with foods rich in Omega-3s, such as fish and certain seeds. For those concerned about processing or Omega-6 intake, options like extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, and cold-pressed seed oils are available.
“Seed oils are not the health villain they’ve been made out to be. In the right context, they are a healthy, safe fat source that can be part of a balanced diet. Stop fearing seed oils and focus on overall diet quality instead.” — Dr. Mike, RP Strength
The Bottom Line
While fitness influencers like Lars Meidell have sparked renewed scrutiny of seed oils, current scientific evidence does not support the claim that they are more harmful than sugar or soda. Most health authorities agree that the real dietary risks come from excess calories and ultra-processed foods, not seed oils themselves. As research continues, experts advise focusing on overall dietary patterns and making informed choices about fats.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor before making changes to your diet.
