The Proof with Simon Hill Seed Oils: Dangerous or Misunderstood? Bill Harris, PhD on the Truth About Omega-6 fats
Are seed oils actually harmful? Or is this just another wellness myth gone viral?
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Bill Harris - leading expert on dietary fats - to unpack the science on linoleic acid, an omega-6 fat found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
We explore the rise of seed oil fear-mongering, the truth about inflammation, cholesterol, oxidation, and why outcome data—not mechanisms—should guide our thinking.
- Omega-6 Fats and Health Overview (00:00)
- Why the Review Was Updated (01:22)
- What Is Linoleic Acid? (06:47)
- Linoleic Intake Over Time & Health Links (12:45)
- Research Methods and Key Evidence (16:25)
- Omega-6 and Inflammation Explained (41:00)
- Common Myths About Seed Oils (44:37)
- The Oxidation Concern with Seed Oils (49:20)
- Omega-6 vs Omega-3: The Real Story (53:39)
- Blood Sugar, Insulin & Linoleic Acid (01:03:48)
- Heart Health and Linoleic Benefits (01:05:44)
- Cancer Risk and Seed Oils (01:13:49)
- Public Health and Future Research (01:16:55)
- How to Use Vegetable Oils Wisely (01:25:17)
- Wrap-Up and Takeaway Advice (01:32:22)
If you’ve been confused by the seed oil debate, this one’s for you.
Visit The Proof website for the full show notes and supporting studies.
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Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)
• Creator of theproof.com
• Host of The Proof with Simon Hill
• Author of The Proof is in the Plants
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