Latest news with #AmericanSocietyforNutrition
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Study reveals how 'unhealthy' seed oils can help prevent heart diseases and type 2 diabetes
Image credits: Getty Images The seed of thought that certain 'seed oils' are unhealthy and harmful for the body, has been crushed by a new study to reveal a new oily detail. For years, social media health gurus and nutrition coaches have warned people against using seed oils for cooking, treating it like a toxic product. However, a new study presented at the 2025 annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, has crushed that seed to prove that its oil is, on the contrary, very healthy. Linoleic acid is healthy for the body Image credits: Getty Images According to the findings of the study, people with high levels of linoleic acid have a lower risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes due to reduced inflammation. Linoleic acid is present in seed oils, derived from the seeds of a plant such as sunflower, canola and sesame. Thus, this association completely dissolves the belief that seed oils are "bad" for health. "The study based on almost 1900 people found that higher linoleic acid in blood plasma was associated with lower levels of biomarkers of cardiometabolic risk," said Kevin C. Maki, adjunct professor at the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington in a statement. The study is based on prominent evidence Image credits: Getty Images While these results match with previous research, this study was based on bloodwork and this makes its findings even more prominent than observational evidence. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The study made the use of objective biomarkers rather than diet records or food frequency questionnaires to assess linoleic acid intake. Additionally, markers of inflammation and indicators of glucose metabolism were also analysed. Maki noted how they tested for other inflammation biomarkers and consistently found that 'people with higher levels of linoleic acid in their blood tended to have a healthier overall risk profile for heart disease and diabetes.' Not just the study, experts as well are adding to the fact that seed oils aren't as unhealthy as proposed. "Seed oils are objectively quite healthy, in that they're typically low in saturated fats,' said Kerry Beeson, a nutritional therapist at Prep Kitchen to NY Post. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Fox News
3 days ago
- Health
- Fox News
Controversial seed oils may offer unexpected health benefits, new research shows
Amid MAHA-inspired efforts to reduce ultraprocessed food consumption, seed oils have come under tough scrutiny in recent months — but a new study suggests they may not be all bad. Researchers from the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington found that linoleic acid — a common omega-6 fatty acid found in a variety of seed oils — could help reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Linoleic acid is found in seed oils such as soybean and corn oil, as well as plant foods, according to a press release from the American Society for Nutrition. "There has been increasing attention on seed oils, with some claiming these oils promote inflammation and raise cardiometabolic risk," said Kevin C. Maki, Ph.D., adjunct professor at the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington and chief scientist at Midwest Biomedical Research, in the release. "Our study, based on almost 1,900 people, found that higher linoleic acid in blood plasma was associated with lower levels of biomarkers of cardiometabolic risk, including those related to inflammation." While previous studies have explored the link between linoleic acid and cardiovascular risk factors, this latest research used "objective biomarkers" instead of relying on participants' self-reported dietary habits, according to Maki. "We also measured a range of markers of inflammation and indicators of glucose metabolism," he noted. People with higher levels of linoleic acid were found to have lower levels of glucose, insulin and markers of inflammation, the researchers found. "We saw consistent results across the different biomarkers measured," Maki said. "People with higher levels of linoleic acid in their blood tended to have a healthier overall risk profile for heart disease and diabetes." The findings were presented at NUTRITION 2025, the flagship annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition that was held May 31-June 3 in Orlando — although the results were preliminary. "Abstracts presented at NUTRITION 2025 were evaluated and selected by a committee of experts, but have not generally undergone the same peer review process required for publication in a scientific journal," the release stated. "As such, the findings presented should be considered preliminary until a peer-reviewed publication is available." Based on the findings, the researchers called for additional study to confirm whether greater intake of linoleic acid intake reduces the chances of heart attacks, stroke and type 2 diabetes, the release stated. The team also aims to determine the impact of specific types of oils. Michelle Routhenstein, a New York-based registered dietitian who specializes in heart disease, was not involved in the study but shared reaction to the findings. "As a cardiovascular dietitian, I think this study reinforces what evidence has long suggested: Seed oils are not harmful — in fact, they may be protective of cardiometabolic health," she told Fox News Digital. "By using blood biomarkers, the research shows that higher linoleic acid levels are linked to lower inflammation and better cardiometabolic health." "This study supports including seed oils, used in appropriate amounts, as part of a heart-healthy diet." Routhenstein noted that linoleic acid has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and support healthy cell membranes. "It is also associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers like CRP (C-reactive protein)," she said. "These biological effects help explain its cardiometabolic benefits." "This study supports including seed oils, used in appropriate amounts, as part of a heart-healthy diet." In a Dec. 2024 study published in the medical journal Gut, the plant-based cooking oils — which are often used in processed, packaged foods — were linked to an increased risk of colon cancer, although dietitians pointed to limitations. For more Lifestyle articles, visit Meanwhile, California chef and restaurant owner Andrew Gruel has shared his staunch opposition to seed oils in interviews with Fox News Digital, saying the "switch away from seed oils shows this movement is here to stay." "People have researched the effects of seed oils, tried the alternatives and are now demanding their favorite brands make the switch," Gruel said. Sherry Coleman Collins, a food allergy dietitian and expert from the Atlanta metropolitan area, suggested the cautions about seed oils may be exaggerated, but did recommend choosing wisely. In terms of cooking oils, Collins recommended using olive oil, noting there's a "significant body of evidence" for its use as part of a Mediterranean approach to eating. "Extra-virgin olive oil can be a wonderful, versatile oil to use in low-medium heat cooking. It tastes great and has a very good fatty acid profile," she previously told Fox News Digital. "For higher-heat cooking, I like avocado and peanut oils for their high smoke point and neutral flavor, and they, too, have good fatty acid profiles." Fox News Digital reached out to the Indiana University researchers for comment. Peter Burke of Fox News Digital contributed reporting.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Beat disease with food: Shocking new study links this compound in veg diets to lower diabetes and heart risk
While fitness routines and weight management often dominate conversations around disease prevention , new research presented at the American Society for Nutrition's NUTRITION 2025 event shines a spotlight on a largely overlooked dietary component: phytosterols . These naturally occurring compounds, commonly found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, could be more powerful than previously imagined when it comes to protecting against major chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease . Study Connects Plant-Based Diets with Lower Inflammation and Better Insulin Response According yo The Mirror, the research, as outlined by Fenglei Wang, a research associate at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , is based on data drawn from over 200,000 adults across three large-scale studies. Although the findings have yet to undergo peer review, they were shared at the major nutrition event as a promising lead in understanding diet-disease connections. 'Our findings support the dietary recommendation of adhering to healthy plant-based dietary patterns that are rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole grains,' Wang said in a statement. He added that the results offer practical insights for those looking to make informed choices about their meals. What makes these plant foods especially potent is their phytosterol content. Structurally similar to cholesterol, phytosterols are believed to impact metabolic markers in compelling ways. Researchers found that individuals with higher phytosterol intake showed improved insulin activity, reduced inflammation, and even changes in their gut microbiome—factors intricately tied to better metabolic health . Why it matters? Chronic inflammation and insulin resistance are often invisible until they manifest in serious conditions. Inflammation has long been linked to heart disease, while insulin resistance is a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes. Poor metabolic health, influenced by factors like high blood sugar and obesity, continues to be a growing global concern. You Might Also Like: Leaving meat is not enough: New study reveals the vegetarian diet your heart really needs 'Our clinical biomarker and metabolomic results suggest the involvement of insulin activity, inflammation and the metabolism of metabolites associated with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease,' Wang explained. 'This suggests that phytosterol might reduce risk by alleviating insulin resistance and inflammation.' Despite the encouraging results, the study has its limitations. The participant group mainly consisted of nurses and healthcare professionals, and nearly 80% were women. This demographic imbalance underscores the need for further, more diverse studies to understand how phytosterols affect different populations. How to Eat Smarter The study suggests, prevention may lie not in trendy diets or expensive supplements but in embracing a more plant-forward plate. As scientists continue to decode the intricate links between food and health, simple daily habits—like swapping out refined snacks for nuts or adding more whole grains to your meals—could quietly reshape your long-term wellbeing. While phytosterols may not yet be a household term, they might soon become a cornerstone in conversations around everyday nutrition and chronic disease prevention. You Might Also Like: Vegan vs. meat: Twin brothers' six-month experiment reveals which diet packs more vitamins
Economic Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Economic Times
Beat disease with food: Shocking new study links this compound in veg diets to lower diabetes and heart risk
iStock Researchers highlighted phytosterols—compounds found in plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, and nuts—as powerful allies in preventing diabetes and heart disease. (Image- iStock) While fitness routines and weight management often dominate conversations around disease prevention, new research presented at the American Society for Nutrition's NUTRITION 2025 event shines a spotlight on a largely overlooked dietary component: phytosterols. These naturally occurring compounds, commonly found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, could be more powerful than previously imagined when it comes to protecting against major chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. According yo The Mirror, the research, as outlined by Fenglei Wang, a research associate at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, is based on data drawn from over 200,000 adults across three large-scale studies. Although the findings have yet to undergo peer review, they were shared at the major nutrition event as a promising lead in understanding diet-disease connections. 'Our findings support the dietary recommendation of adhering to healthy plant-based dietary patterns that are rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole grains,' Wang said in a statement. He added that the results offer practical insights for those looking to make informed choices about their meals. What makes these plant foods especially potent is their phytosterol content. Structurally similar to cholesterol, phytosterols are believed to impact metabolic markers in compelling ways. Researchers found that individuals with higher phytosterol intake showed improved insulin activity, reduced inflammation, and even changes in their gut microbiome—factors intricately tied to better metabolic health. Chronic inflammation and insulin resistance are often invisible until they manifest in serious conditions. Inflammation has long been linked to heart disease, while insulin resistance is a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes. Poor metabolic health, influenced by factors like high blood sugar and obesity, continues to be a growing global concern. 'Our clinical biomarker and metabolomic results suggest the involvement of insulin activity, inflammation and the metabolism of metabolites associated with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease,' Wang explained. 'This suggests that phytosterol might reduce risk by alleviating insulin resistance and inflammation.'Despite the encouraging results, the study has its limitations. The participant group mainly consisted of nurses and healthcare professionals, and nearly 80% were women. This demographic imbalance underscores the need for further, more diverse studies to understand how phytosterols affect different populations. The study suggests, prevention may lie not in trendy diets or expensive supplements but in embracing a more plant-forward plate. As scientists continue to decode the intricate links between food and health, simple daily habits—like swapping out refined snacks for nuts or adding more whole grains to your meals—could quietly reshape your long-term wellbeing. While phytosterols may not yet be a household term, they might soon become a cornerstone in conversations around everyday nutrition and chronic disease prevention.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Eating food cooked in THIS oil can improve memory and reduce dementia risk by 28%
Research indicates that regular olive oil consumption may significantly lower the risk of fatal dementia. A study revealed that consuming more than half a tablespoon of olive oil daily is associated with a 28% reduction in dementia-related deaths. This benefit appears independent of overall diet quality, suggesting unique properties of olive oil that support brain health. In this modern day, most of us try to avoid consuming oily food, due to health concerns. But what if an oil could actually protect your brain and also lower your risk of dementia ? Yes, that's right. Researchers have found that adding a certain oil to the diet could boost brain health and also reduce the risk of dementia. A study presented at the American Society for Nutrition's annual meeting, NUTRITION 2023, suggests that regular olive oil consumption can lower fatal dementia by 28%. What is dementia (Pic courtesy: iStock) Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia. Dementia affects over 55 million people worldwide, with an estimated 10 million new cases every year. How does olive oil improve brain function The study led by researcher Anne-Julie Tessier, suggests that incorporating olive oil into your diet could help reduce the risk of dying from dementia . Amidst the rising rates of Alzheimer's disease, the study has found that healthy lifestyle factors such as diet can help to prevent or slow the progression of such conditions. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villa For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas in Dubai | Search ads Learn More Undo This study is the first of its kind to investigate the relationship between diet and dementia-related death. To understand the benefits of olive oil on brain function, the scientists analyzed dietary questionnaires and death records collected from more than 90,000 Americans over three decades, during which 4,749 study participants died from dementia. The researchers found that people who consumed more than half a tablespoon of olive oil per day had a 28% lower risk of dying from dementia compared with those who never or rarely consumed olive oil. They also found that replacing just one teaspoon of margarine and mayonnaise with the equivalent amount of olive oil per day was associated with an 8-14% lower risk of dying from dementia. The study suggests that people who consume olive oil regularly instead of processed or animal fats tend to have healthier diets overall. However, Tessier stressed that the relationship between olive oil and dementia mortality risk in this study was independent of overall diet quality. This suggests that olive oil has properties that are uniquely beneficial for brain health. 'Some antioxidant compounds in olive oil can cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially having a direct effect on the brain. It is also possible that olive oil has an indirect effect on brain health by benefiting cardiovascular health,' Tessier said. Previous studies have suggested that higher olive oil intake is linked with a lower risk of heart disease. Interestingly, the Mediterranean diet, which is considered one of the best diets for overall wellness, also has olive oil as part of it, and it has shown protection against cognitive decline. Trump Health Scare: 'Cognitive Decline' Spotted? Political Adviser's BIG Warning Amid Dementia Claim Tessier, however, cautioned that the research is observational and does not prove that olive oil is the reason behind the reduced risk of fatal dementia. Further studies are required to confirm its effects. Also, keep in mind that olives are calorie-dense, so use them in moderation. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
