Ultraprocessed Foods High in Seed Oils Could Be Fueling Colon Cancer Risk
www.scientificamerican.com
A new study suggests certain lipids, particularly omega-6 fatty acids, which are commonly found in seed oils used to make ultraprocessed junk food, may promote inflammation in colon cancer tumors

Summary

A new study links omega-6 fatty acids, common in seed oils used in ultraprocessed foods, to inflammation that may fuel colon cancer.

Researchers found colorectal tumor samples contained high levels of omega-6s and low levels of omega-3s, which help resolve inflammation.

Prolonged inflammation can damage cells, promote uncontrolled cell growth, and increase cancer risk.

Experts suggest the Western diet, heavy in ultraprocessed foods and seed oils, is a likely contributor.

While omega-6s are essential in moderation, their current overconsumption raises concerns, prompting calls for further research and dietary caution.

  • ProdigalFrogEnglish
    13•2 days ago

    I have a strong suspicion that the seed oils were processed in a way that caused them to oxidize, yet this is not apparent due to a deodorizing step done during production of the oil (this is common with cheap oils used in ultra processed foods). Especially if they are high in unsaturated or polyunsaturated fats, which are more prone to oxidize from heat exposure.

    Avocado and Coconut oil, and (unfortunately) animal fats are likely the safest oils if used for highly processed foods.

    If purchasing oil for yourself, you could add in other oils that were minimally processed and cold pressed which will limit oxidation, but increase cost. If cooking with them, try to stick with oils that have a high smoke point, such as high oleic sunflower oil and avocado oil, as they will produce the least oxidized free radicals during the cooking process.