Amid ongoing scrutiny over seed oils spurred by MAHA-inspired initiatives to limit ultraprocessed food consumption, a new study from Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington has suggested these oils may not be as detrimental to health as previously believed. The research, focused on the role of linoleic acid—a common omega-6 fatty acid found in seed oils—found that higher blood plasma levels of this acid were linked to improved heart health and decreased inflammation.
Linoleic acid is present in various seed oils, including soybean and corn oil, as well as in plant-based foods. The study, conducted by researchers at the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, was presented at the NUTRITION 2025 conference, where the findings were considered preliminary due to their lack of formal peer review. However, the research has sparked debate about the role of seed oils in diet and health, with some experts arguing that these oils may offer protective benefits against cardiometabolic diseases.
Kevin C. Maki, an adjunct professor at the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington and chief scientist at Midwest Biomedical Research, emphasized that the study’s use of objective biomarkers, rather than self-reported dietary data, provided more reliable insights into the health impacts of linoleic acid. The research indicated that individuals with higher linoleic acid levels had lower inflammation markers, better glucose metabolism, and a reduced risk profile for heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Despite these findings, other studies have raised concerns about the potential health risks of seed oils, including links to colon cancer and inflammation. These contrasting viewpoints have led to differing opinions among health professionals and food industry stakeholders, with some advocating for greater scrutiny of seed oil consumption and others supporting their inclusion in a balanced diet.
As the debate continues, there is a growing call for more rigorous studies to determine the long-term health effects of seed oils and their specific impact on cardiometabolic health. Meanwhile, many dietitians and nutrition experts are urging individuals to consider the role of these oils in their diet and to explore alternative cooking oils, such as olive oil or avocado oil, as part of a heart-healthy approach to eating.