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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