Now for the not-so-good news. Palm oil is particularly rich in palmitic acid, a saturated fatty acid that has been linked to an increased risk of developing it heart disease7 In some studies. However, results have been mixed and controversial on the oil effect on health8 Especially heart health9. 1 review was posted on Frontiers in Physiology10 In 2017 he points out that palmitic acid is not a problem per se but rather the ratio of palmitic acid to polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAS) such as omega-3s that you consume.
For the record, less than 10% of Americans get enough omega-3s, according to Ashley Jordan Ferreira, Ph.D., RDNmbg’s director of scientific affairs, “We have a national omega-3 gap that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible,” she previously told mbg.
As mentioned before, the International Journal of Cardiology Take a very firm stance that there is no point in replacing palm oil with trans fats as long as you eat an otherwise well-balanced diet (aka omega-3s and other important nutrients).
All told, palm oil’s biggest drawback goes beyond your health. Many old forests are being cleared for palm oil plantations, most notably in Southeast Asia. As palm oil farmers race to expand their land area to keep up with the demand for palms, they are cutting down trees, destroying wildlife habitat and damaging valuable carbon storage stocks. Access to palm oil poses a threat to the survival of orangutans, but it also threatens Sumatran elephants, rhinos, tigers, and the livelihoods of local community members.
It is possible to find sustainable palm oil, but you have to be very diligent because cheaper versions of the oil are often found in packaged foods and personal care products. If you buy palm oil, be sure of it RSPO . certified Palms free from deforestation.
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