Are seed oils healthy for you?

Yes, seed oils such as soybean, sunflower and canola oil can be part of a healthy diet, nutrition experts say.

You may have seen some social media influencers claim that omega-6 fats in seed oils can cause inflammation.

However, scientific research doesn’t support that claim, says Iowa registered dietitian Erin Good.

Instead, studies have found that seed oils can benefit heart health.

Seed oils contain unsaturated fats, including polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, Good says. These “good” fats help lower cholesterol, reduce heart disease risk and support overall health when they replace saturated and trans fat in the diet, according to the American Heart Association.

“We want you to have a variety of fats. That’s how you get more of the nutrients you need,” Good says.