Don't flip out over the latest fat flip
There's a lot of flap online about two fat flips. One is in a study in Cell Reports that's calling out a component of "super-healthful" olive oil -- the omega-9 called oleic acid -- for its fat-cell-building ability that can fuel obesity. Another study, from the American Society for Nutrition, says seed oils, long-targeted for links to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and Alzheimer's disease, may be a good way to reduce the risk for heart disease and diabetes and lower levels of inflammation biomarkers, including C-reactive protein and serum amyloid A.
At first glance, that seems nonsensical. But do you know the phrase "the right dose at the right time"?
Olive oil may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and dementia in people who consume higher amounts of olive oil than those who use little or none. But new info reveals that getting too much oleic acid, even from olive oil, isn't healthy.
Ditto for seed oils, such as those from sunflower, safflower, and corn. They deliver the omega-6 called linoleic acid. In moderation, they have benefits. Unfortunately, Americans get 15 times more omega-6s than omega-3s (like the fat in salmon and avocados) -- and that lopsided intake is related to increased risk of many chronic diseases. The ideal ratio is between 2:1 to 4:1, omega-6s to omega-3s. Then, linoleic acid has health benefits!
So, don't fry foods in seed oils. Don't soak salads in olive oil. For recipes to guide your balanced consumption, enjoy my "What to Cook When Cookbook."
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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