Using oil, including seed oils, instead of butter lowers health risk: study

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A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that using certain vegetable oils instead of butter may lead to longer, healthier lives. The research, conducted over 30 years and involving 221,054 adults, highlights the benefits of plant-based oils such as olive oil, canola oil, and soybean oil.

According to the study’s corresponding author, Daniel Wang, individuals who consumed higher amounts of butter had a 15% higher risk of premature death compared to those who consumed less butter. On the other hand, those who consumed higher amounts of plant-based oils had a 16% lower risk of premature death. By simply replacing a small amount of butter with plant-based oils daily, individuals could potentially reduce their overall risk of death by 17%, as well as lower their risk of death from cancer by 17%.

The study challenges the conventional belief that seed oils like canola and soybean are harmful due to their industrial processing methods. Instead, nutrition experts now suggest that plant oils are generally preferable to animal fats for overall health.

Although the study was observational and relied on self-reported dietary data, the findings still held significance. Even after adjusting for potential confounding factors, the association between higher butter consumption and increased mortality risk remained consistent. Olive oil, canola oil, and soybean oil specifically were linked to lower mortality risk.

Dariush Mozaffarian, a cardiologist and director of the Food is Medicine Institute at Tufts University, emphasized the positive effects of plant oils on cholesterol levels, blood glucose, and cardiovascular health. He noted that the study found no evidence of harm from less popular oils like corn and safflower oil.

While some experts like Mozaffarian believe butter is a neutral food in the context of a healthy diet, the study’s authors advocate for the health benefits of plant-based oils as accessible and affordable alternatives. They suggest that options like canola and soybean oils may be valuable substitutes for more expensive olive oil, promoting health equity in dietary choices.

Overall, the research adds to the ongoing debate over fats and their impact on health. By emphasizing the advantages of vegetable oils over butter, the study provides valuable insights for individuals looking to improve their longevity and well-being through dietary choices. Our financial supporters play a crucial role in sustaining our journalism and allowing us to continue providing quality news and information to our readers. However, it is important to note that our financial supporters are not involved in any decisions about our journalism.

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