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The Proof with Simon Hill

Is canola oil toxic? | Gil Carvhalo, Md, PhD

Nov 20, 2023
Dr. Gil Carvalho, a respected physician and research scientist, unpacks the complexities of canola oil's role in our health. He discusses the origins and composition of canola oil, the impact on blood lipids and cardiovascular health, its influence on weight loss and blood glucose control, and the controversy surrounding its inflammatory effects. Dr. Carvalho also examines various studies on canola oil, addressing concerns about oxidation, liver fat, and total mortality. Tune in for an insightful discussion that challenges common misconceptions about canola oil.
01:56:34

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Canola oil consumption is generally safe and may have benefits for cardiovascular health, with lower LDL cholesterol and reduced triglycerides compared to other fats.
  • Comparisons between canola oil and nuts/seeds show no significant differences in cardiovascular risk factors.

Deep dives

Canola oil and cardiovascular health

The available evidence from both randomized controlled trials and cohort studies suggests that consumption of canola oil is generally safe and may have benefits for cardiovascular health. In randomized controlled trials comparing canola oil with other fats, such as butter or high-saturated fat foods, canola oil was associated with lower LDL cholesterol, reduced apo-B levels, and decreased triglycerides. Meta-analyses of these trials found no significant differences in cardiovascular outcomes between canola oil and olive oil or sunflower seed oil. When examining long-term cohort studies, individuals who cooked with canola oil had a lower risk of cardiovascular mortality compared to those cooking with butter. The evidence from the large-scale Leon Diet Heart Study also showed a significant reduction in cardiovascular events and mortality with the consumption of a Mediterranean diet that included canola oil. While more research is needed to determine the specific mechanisms and optimal dosages, current evidence does not support the claims that canola oil is harmful to cardiovascular health.

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