From the Guidelines
Canola oil is not considered inflammatory for most people when consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet. It actually contains omega-3 fatty acids and has a favorable omega-6 to omega-3 ratio compared to many other vegetable oils, which may help reduce inflammation in the body 1. Canola oil is also low in saturated fat and contains monounsaturated fats that can support heart health. The key to maximizing its health benefits lies in choosing high-quality, minimally processed forms of the oil, such as cold-pressed or expeller-pressed canola oil, and using it as part of a varied diet that includes multiple sources of healthy fats.
Some of the benefits of canola oil include:
- Low saturated fat content
- Presence of monounsaturated fats
- Favorable omega-6 to omega-3 ratio
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation
However, it's essential to consume canola oil in moderation, as all oils are calorie-dense. For individuals with specific inflammatory conditions or concerns, incorporating a variety of anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, olive oil, nuts, and plenty of fruits and vegetables alongside moderate canola oil use would be a balanced approach 1. According to the most recent guidelines, increasing consumption of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as canola oil, while limiting the use of corn and vegetable oils, can lead to decreased inflammation and other health benefits 1.
From the Research
Canola Oil and Inflammation
- The relationship between canola oil consumption and inflammation is complex, with varying effects observed in different studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Some studies suggest that canola oil may have anti-inflammatory effects, particularly when enriched with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or γ-oryzanol 4, 5.
- For example, a randomized crossover controlled intervention trial found that DHA-enriched canola oil increased plasma adiponectin concentrations and reduced relative expression levels of interleukin (IL)1B compared with a control corn/safflower oil blend 4.
- Another study found that daily intake of γ-oryzanol-fortified canola oil decreased serum hs-CRP concentrations and serum IL-6 in adult subjects with type 2 diabetes 5.
Comparison with Other Oils
- Canola oil has been compared with other oils, such as sunflower oil and soybean oil, in terms of its effects on inflammation 3, 6.
- A study found that higher consumption of non-hydrogenated vegetable oils, including canola oil, was associated with lower circulating concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers, whereas higher consumption of partially hydrogenated vegetable oils was associated with elevated concentrations of these biomarkers 3.
- However, another study found that the dietary replacement of soybean oil with canola oil did not prevent liver fatty acid accumulation and liver inflammation in mice 6.
Mechanisms and Biomarkers
- The mechanisms by which canola oil may influence inflammation are not fully understood, but may involve changes in the expression of inflammatory genes and transcription factors, as well as alterations in the composition of fatty acids in the diet 4, 6.
- Various biomarkers of inflammation have been used to assess the effects of canola oil consumption, including C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and adiponectin 3, 4, 5.