With the increasing popularity of soybean oil in processed foods, a corresponding rise in associated health issues has also been observed. One such alarming association is the link between soybean oil and ulcerative colitis. Let’s take a look at what the latest research shows in terms of the health risks of soybean oil and its connection to gut health.
The Upsurge of Soybean Oil Consumption
The use of soybean oil in processed foods is staggering. In the US, the per capita consumption of soybean oil increased by more than 1,000-fold during the 20th century.
Health Risk of Soybean Oil: The Link to Ulcerative Colitis
A recent study from the University of California (UC) Riverside and UC Davis revealed that a diet rich in soybean oil was linked to a greater risk of developing ulcerative colitis. It appears that linoleic acid, a predominant omega-6 fatty acid in soybean oil, is to blame.
The Linoleic Acid Overdose
According to researchers, most adults require one to two percent of their daily energy from linoleic acid; it is vital for maintaining the body’s water balance. However, American adults typically exceed their requirements, consuming up to 10% of their daily energy from linoleic acid.
This is alarming. High linoleic acid consumption has been studied previously, and earlier studies have shown links between excess linoleic acid consumption and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in humans, and obesity and diabetes in rodents.
The Omega-3 and Omega-6 Imbalance
In the University of California study, researchers wanted to better understand why. The excess amount of linoleic acid appeared to wreak havoc on gut health, specifically the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in the gut. In the study mice, this imbalance subsequently led to a reduction in endocannabinoids, crucial lipid-based molecules that block inflammation.
The Adverse Microbial Shift
In addition, the gut microbiome of the mice also revealed an upsurge in adherent invasive E. coli, a potentially dangerous bacteria that thrives on linoleic acid. A bacterial strain closely related to E. coli has been linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in humans, further supporting the relationship between diet and specific illnesses and conditions.
Altering The Dietary Landscape
What can patients do to ensure they maintain healthy omega-3:omega-6 ratios? Cooking with olive oil, reducing processed food consumption, and eating omega-3 rich foods like flaxseed and walnuts are several ways to curb soybean oil intake. Within the field of health care, there is growing awareness that taking care of our gut health is an important step towards optimizing overall health and wellness.
Final Word
Uncovering the health risks of soybean oil reinforces the importance of informed dietary choices. By opting for healthier fats and maintaining a well-rounded diet, we can safeguard our gut health, a necessary component for overall well-being.
Stay tuned for more insightful information on nurturing and promoting healthy habits and lifestyles. If you have any questions or want to learn more about this topic or anything else related to your health, contact the Alliance team. Let us help you define and maintain your path to optimal long term wellness!
Source article: https://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/995478
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