The mindbodygreen Podcast
580: Why this MD avoids seed oils at all costs | Cate Shanahan, M.D.
Feb 16, 2025
Cate Shanahan, M.D., a board-certified family physician and nutrition expert for the LA Lakers, dives into the controversial world of seed oils. She reveals the 'Hateful Eight' oils to avoid, comparing their risks to smoking. Shanahan discusses how historical nutrition guidelines have misled public perception of cholesterol and heart health. She highlights the role of oxidative stress and the need for informed nutrition discussions beyond social media misconceptions, advocating for healthier cooking oils to combat rising health issues.
50:18
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Dr. Cate Shanahan identifies the 'Hateful Eight' seed oils, which she deems harmful due to their refining process and nutritional voids.
- Shanahan argues that the health risks posed by seed oils are comparable to smoking, necessitating a reevaluation of dietary guidelines and education.
Deep dives
The Hateful Eight: An Introduction to Problematic Seed Oils
Dr. Kate Shanahan introduces the concept of the 'Hateful Eight,' which refers to eight specific seed oils that she considers detrimental to human health. These oils, including corn, canola, cottonseed, soy, sunflower, safflower, rice bran, and grapeseed, are recognized for their high levels of polyunsaturated fats and the fact that they require extensive refining to be made edible. This refining process strips these oils of any nutritional value and transforms them into harmful substances that can cause oxidative stress in the body. The discussion emphasizes that if the term 'Hateful Eight' isn't used, misconceptions about the toxicity of different oils can arise, indicating a lack of understanding in the conversation about seed oils.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
