Experts Recommend Consuming This Food in Moderation to Protect Heart Health.
Diet is a crucial factor for our overall health. Previous studies have shown that consuming too little or too much of certain foods can lead to specific consequences for various parts of the body.
The heart is no exception. Health organizations frequently issue warnings about foods to avoid or limit to protect cardiovascular health. Recently, an expert from the United States revealed a type of food that should be consumed in moderation to safeguard heart health.
Dr. Eric Berg, CEO of the Berg Health & Wellness Institute (USA).
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Dr. Eric Berg stated: “Let’s talk about a type of food that, if consumed in excess, is not good for the heart – and I’m not talking about sugar.”
The doctor suggested that overconsumption of this food could increase the risk of heart disease.
“This food is an industrial product that is heated five times and contains added chemicals. The food we are talking about is seed oil“, Dr. Berg said.
Seed oil refers to any vegetable oil made from the seeds of plants. Dr. Berg warned that excessive use of seed oils can:
- Cause inflammation inside the arteries
- Produce low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) within the arteries
- Increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome
- Raise the risk of blood clots
- Cause oxidative stress.
Dr. Berg noted that in the past, we often discussed how trans fats affected cardiovascular health; however, they are not consumed as much as before. In contrast, seed oils are found in “many types of food”, he mentioned. Therefore, we might be consuming too much without realizing it.
“Seed oils are present in many of our foods. They are used in cooking, made into sauces, and are found in most processed foods,” Dr. Berg explained.
“Check product packaging to reduce seed oil consumption. For sauces, it’s best to make them at home.”
Illustration of a man cooking.
What Do Other Experts Say?
Experts at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health have also questioned whether seed oils are truly harmful.
The experts wrote on the Harvard Health website: “It is true that many foods use seed oils for processing (such as packaged fast foods and French fries) that are not healthy, but these foods often also contain high levels of refined carbohydrates, sodium, and sugar.”
These ingredients are the culprits behind weight gain and other health issues, the experts noted. Therefore, cutting back on these foods could make you feel healthier.
What Oils Are Good for Heart Health?
Instead of using seed oils for cooking, Dr. Berg recommends using olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, and lard.
Numerous studies have concluded that olive oil is the healthiest cooking oil for the heart. It has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other conditions.
