Daijiworld Media Network – New York
New York, Jun 7: While sugary foods and soft drinks are usually the first to be axed in a healthy diet, fitness experts are now drawing attention to a lesser-known dietary villain—seed oils.
In a recent viral video, Norwegian fitness coach Lars Meidell, founder of Reinvented AS and a social media influencer with 1.3 million Instagram followers, called 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,” Lars said, adding that they cause oxidative stress, which can lead to hormonal imbalance, heart disease, and even cancer. He listed commonly used oils such as sunflower oil, canola oil, corn oil, and soybean oil as culprits—cheap, heavily processed, and rich in unstable Omega-6 fats.
The claim has reignited debate among health circles. As per the National Library of Medicine, oxidative stress occurs when the body’s ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) is overwhelmed, potentially leading to cell and tissue damage.
Dr Mark Hyman, founder of the Cleveland Clinic's Center for Functional Medicine, echoed similar concerns in an earlier conversation with Huberman Labs. He recommended replacing seed oils with fats from whole food sources such as avocados, coconuts, nuts, seeds, and Omega-3s from fish, as well as extra virgin olive oil, which is minimally processed.
Dr Hyman also flagged that many seed oils are derived from genetically modified crops, often subjected to heavy chemical treatments and industrial processing techniques like oxidation, bleaching, and solvent extraction—raising questions about their safety for regular consumption.
While experts acknowledge that research is ongoing and opinions remain divided, the takeaway is clear: more awareness and better choices in cooking oils could go a long way in supporting long-term health.
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.