Cooking oil could fuel chances of aggressive cancer.

Excessive Consumption of Cooking Oil Linked to Increased Cancer Risk, Study Finds

A recent study from Weill Cornell Medicine has revealed that consuming too much cooking oil, particularly those high in linoleic acid, could increase the risk of developing an aggressive form of breast cancer. Published on March 14 in the journal Science, the research highlights the potential dangers of overusing vegetable and seed oils in everyday cooking.

The Link Between Linoleic Acid and Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

The study found that linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid commonly found in vegetable and seed oils, may promote the growth of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). This subtype of breast cancer is known for its rapid progression, limited treatment options, and higher prevalence in women under 40. According to the American Cancer Society, TNBC accounts for 10% to 15% of all breast cancer cases and has a five-year survival rate of around 77%.

Linoleic acid is considered an essential fatty acid, meaning the body cannot produce it on its own and must obtain it through diet. It plays a vital role in regulating inflammation, maintaining skin health, and supporting cell membrane structure. However, since the 1950s, the widespread use of seed oils in fried and ultra-processed foods has led to excessive consumption of omega-6 fatty acids, disrupting the delicate balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fats in the body.

Common Cooking Oils High in Linoleic Acid

Linoleic acid is abundant in many widely used cooking oils, including:

Canola oil

Corn oil

Cottonseed oil

Soybean oil

Sunflower oil

Safflower oil

Rice bran oil

While these oils are popular for frying and food processing, their high omega-6 content—coupled with low omega-3 levels—can contribute to chronic inflammation, which is a known risk factor for cancer and other diseases.

Moderation and Dietary Balance Are Key

Dr. John Blenis, the study’s senior author and a cancer researcher at Weill Cornell Medicine, emphasized that the findings do not suggest completely avoiding seed oils. Instead, he recommends moderation and selectivity, especially for individuals at higher risk of breast cancer.

“The best approach is to maintain a balanced, whole-food diet,” Dr. Blenis told The New York Post. “This is an important cornerstone of cancer prevention and a strategy everyone can adopt.”

The Importance of a Healthy Diet in Cancer Prevention

Nutrition experts have long advocated for diets rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats like those found in olive oil, avocados, and fatty fish. These foods provide a better omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, helping to reduce inflammation and lower cancer risk.

Additionally, limiting the intake of ultra-processed foods—which often contain high amounts of refined seed oils—can further decrease the likelihood of developing chronic illnesses, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

Eat Healthy, Stay Healthy

Therefore, the best way to stay healthy, Blenis explained in the New York Post article, is to have “a balanced, whole-food diet” because it’s considered “an important cornerstone of cancer prevention” and is “a strategy everyone can adopt.

While cooking oils are a staple in many diets, this study serves as a reminder that excessive consumption of certain types may have serious health consequences. By choosing healthier fats, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding processed foods, individuals can take proactive steps toward reducing their cancer risk and promoting overall well-being.

As research continues to uncover the connections between diet and disease, one thing remains clear: making informed food choices today can lead to a healthier tomorrow.