Soybean oil accounts for over 90% of U.S. cooking oil production, and most Americans regularly consume it in their diet. A January 2020 study out of UC Riverside indicates this may be more detrimental to the population’s health than previously realized.
Research examining the effects of soybean oil on mice has shed light on this common ingredient. Aside from causing metabolic disruption, the fatty acids in this liquid affect the way specific genes in the brain function. These affected genes have been linked by scientists to metabolical, neurological, and inflammatory diseases. The study did not prove soybean oil directly causes disease. However, the relationship between what Americans consume and their overall mental and physical health is worth exploring. (1)
Soybean Oil Production And Obesity On The Rise
During the 20th century, consumption of soybean oil has risen dramatically. According to the USDA, soybean oil is now the most widely produced and consumed cooking oil in the United States. It can be found in everything from packaged foods and fast food frying oil to livestock feed. The standard American diet relies so heavily on soybean oil that scientists are now exploring possible effects of this increased consumption. (2)
Most Americans are aware that saturated fats are bad for their health. Soybean oil contains an unsaturated fatty acid called linoleic acid. Soybean oil, though comprised mostly of unsaturated fats, had a marked effect on the hypothalamus of mice in the study. This area of the brain is responsible for regulating body weight and metabolism. Since the hypothalamus was affected by soybean oil both with and with less of the linoleic acid component, these unsaturated fats might not be as safe as once thought. (1)
Gene Expression Altered
The mice in the study were separated into three groups and then compared to a low-fat diet control group. The mice were given regular soybean oil, modified low-linoleic acid soybean oil, and coconut oil. While the mice fed coconut oil were largely unaffected by changes in the brain, the mice fed soybean oil told a different story. Their brains indicated a number of genes that were not expressing themselves correctly. Among them was a notable change in oxytocin, which the hypothalamus produces to influence food intake, energy balance, and glucose levels. (1)
Researchers also found that over 100 other genes are affected by the soybean oil diet. This list includes genes involved in controlling inflammation and regulating neurological systems. Many of the genes identified have also been linked to diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, autism, depression, and Parkinson’s disease. (1)
Soy Is Still Okay
The study provides evidence of the effects of soybean oil in mice, not humans. It has yet to be seen if the same rules apply to our anatomy. More research is also needed to link specific compounds in the oil to their effects on the hypothalamus. These findings also apply specifically to soybean oil and not soy products in general. Americans don’t need to start throwing out their tofu or edamame just yet.
Because soybean oil is found in many prepackaged products and fried foods, consuming less soybean oil might just improve your health.
