Linoleic Acid: How Vegetable Oil May Be Fueling Inflammation and Disease
Dr. Kumar’s Take:
Linoleic acid (LA), often praised as a “heart-healthy” fat, may actually cause more harm than good when consumed in large amounts. According to this review, high intake of LA from vegetable oils leads to inflammation, blood clotting, insulin resistance, and even higher risk of heart disease and diabetes. Keeping a better balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids is critical for staying healthy.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Humans evolved eating a balanced 1:1 to 2:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, but today’s Western diet has a 20–30:1 ratio, mostly from linoleic acid.
✔ High intake of linoleic acid promotes inflammation, blood clots, insulin resistance, and LDL oxidation.
✔ Reducing linoleic acid intake and increasing omega-3 intake may help lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and chronic inflammation.