I recently interviewed Dr. Cate Shanahan, a board-certified family physician who is a leading authority on nutrition and human metabolism. Her new book, “Dark Calories,” discusses the dangers of seed oils \u2014 often referred to as the greenwashed term vegetable oils \u2014 insulin resistance, and the importance of proper nutrition for optimal health.<\/p>\n
In our interview, Dr. Cate Shanahan explains that seed oils (vegetable oils) are highly toxic, promoting oxidative stress and damaging mitochondria, which are crucial for cellular energy production and overall health.<\/p>\n
The HOMA-IR test is a valuable tool for measuring insulin resistance. Shanahan suggests a threshold of 1.0 or less indicates metabolic health, contrary to higher values often considered normal.<\/p>\n
While previously advocating low-carb diets, Shanahan now recognizes the importance of proper carbohydrate intake for brain and overall health, recommending slow-digesting complex carbohydrates from whole foods.<\/p>\n
Shanahan criticizes the American Heart Association for promoting vegetable oils as heart-healthy, arguing this has led to widespread health issues and suffering in the population
\nReturning to traditional, nutrient-dense whole foods, including raw dairy, bone broth and organ meats, while avoiding ultraprocessed foods and vegetable oils, supports optimal health.<\/p>\n
By focusing on the quality of your food choices and moving away from heavily processed ingredients, you can take significant steps toward better health and cognitive function. As Shanahan concludes:<\/p>\n
“When I improved by diet, I improved my metabolism, I improved my personality. Objectively, you could ask my husband. I improved my immune system function. I improved every aspect of my health. And it just came from getting these \u2026 main bad, big bad ingredients out of my diet.”<\/p>\n
By understanding the hidden dangers in our modern food supply and making informed choices, you can work toward similar improvements in your own health and well-being. It\u2019s a call to action for individuals to take control of their health through informed dietary choices and a return to more traditional, nutrient-dense foods.<\/p>\n