Are Seed Oils Inflammatory? What the Science Says

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Are seed oils really as harmful as social media claims? In this episode, we cut through the noise and go straight to the science — because your health decisions deserve better than a viral post.

Seed oils like sunflower, canola, and soybean have been called everything from “toxic” to the root cause of chronic inflammation. But a landmark 2025 study of nearly 1,900 people found the opposite: higher levels of linoleic acid — the key fat in seed oils — were actually linked to lower inflammatory markers and better cardiometabolic health.

In this episode we cover:

→ What omega-6 fatty acids actually do in your body (and why the “pro-inflammatory” label is a misunderstanding)

→ What 15 randomised controlled trials consistently found about seed oils and inflammation

→ Why ultra-processed foods — not the oils in them — are the real concern

→ The omega-3 to omega-6 ratio debate, and the one simple shift that actually helps

→ Which oils are best for everyday cooking on an anti-inflammatory diet

Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, managing your energy levels, or simply trying to eat in a way that supports long-term health — this episode gives you the clarity you need to make confident, evidence-based choices in the kitchen.

📖 Read the full article with references at vitalityandwellness.com

Resources mentioned:

• Frontiers in Nutrition systematic review (2025)

• American Society for Nutrition NUTRITION 2025 conference findings

• British Journal of Nutrition perspective on plant oils (2024)

• Framingham Heart Study omega-6 analysis (2025)

🌿 Vitality & Wellness is hosted by Stephanie Johnson — helping women aged 35–55 eat in a way that reduces inflammation, supports hormonal health, and builds lasting energy. New episodes every week.

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Read the full article:

https://realfoodscience.com/are-seed-oils-inflammatory