5 worst cooking oils for your health

May 1, 2024

By: Ayush Mehrotra

Palm Oil

While it's commonly used in processed foods and cooking due to its low cost and stability, palm oil contains a high amount of saturated fat, which can increase LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease.

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Soybean Oil

While commonly used in cooking and food processing due to its affordability and mild flavour, soybean oil is high in omega-6 fatty acids. Excessive consumption of omega-6 fatty acids relative to omega-3 fatty acids can promote inflammation, so it's advisable to use soybean oil in moderation and balance it with sources of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.

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Cottonseed Oil

This oil is often extracted from the seeds of cotton plants and is commonly used in processed foods. It has a high omega-6 fatty acid content, which, when consumed in excess, can contribute to inflammation and other health issues.

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Vegetable Oil Blend

Many generic "vegetable oil" blends are made from various oils, including soybean, corn, or sunflower oils. While not inherently bad, these oils are often highly refined and can contain high levels of omega-6 fatty acids, which can be pro-inflammatory if consumed excessively.

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Hydrogenated Oils

These oils are created through a process called hydrogenation, which turns liquid oils into solid fats. Trans fats are known to increase LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease, so it's best to avoid them altogether.

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