Seed oils, such as corn, soybean, and sunflower oils, are often high in omega-6 fatty acids. While omega-6 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy cell membranes and supporting various bodily functions, excessive intake can lead to inflammation. Inflammation is a concern in cancer because it can promote tumor growth and progression.
Additionally, some research suggests that high omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratios may contribute to cancer development and growth. Therefore, feeding seed oils to dogs with cancer, which can potentially increase the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in their diet, might not be advisable. This is often why we promote even higher Omega-3 amounts.
Instead, it’s generally recommended to focus on providing dogs with cancer a balanced diet that includes high-quality proteins, healthy ANIMAL fats and other healthy fats (such as those from fish and plenty of antioxidant-rich vegetables and some fruits. These dietary components can help support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and potentially improve the overall quality of life for dogs battling cancer.
Common seed oils include:
- Soybean oil
- Sunflower oil
- Corn oil
- Canola oil
- Cottonseed oil
- Safflower oil
- Sesame oil
- Pumpkin seed oil
- Flaxseed oil
- Grape seed oil
These oils are extracted from the seeds of various plants and are widely used in cooking, food processing, and as dietary supplements.
- High Omega-6 Fatty Acid Content: Many seed oils, such as soybean, corn, and sunflower oils, are high in omega-6 fatty acids. Consuming too much omega-6 fatty acids relative to omega-3 fatty acids can lead to an imbalance in the body, promoting inflammation and increasing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Processing Methods: Seed oils are often heavily processed to extract the oil from the seeds. Processing methods can involve high heat, chemical solvents, and refining processes, which can strip away beneficial nutrients and antioxidants from the oils and may introduce harmful compounds.
- Highly Refined Nature: Like vegetable oils, many seed oils undergo extensive refining processes to improve their shelf life and appearance. These processes can lead to the formation of potentially harmful byproducts and the removal of natural antioxidants and nutrients.
- GMO Concerns: Some seed oils, such as soybean and corn oils, are derived from genetically modified (GMO) crops. Concerns about GMOs include environmental impacts, potential health risks, and the use of herbicides and pesticides associated with GMO agriculture.
What about Avocado, Coconut or Olive Oil
Coconut oil, avocado oil, and olive oil are not seed oils. But you still must evaluate quality and shop for organics where you can – especially with cancer dogs.
- Coconut oil: It is derived from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera). Coconuts are not seeds but rather the fruit of the coconut palm tree.
- Avocado oil: This oil is pressed from the pulp of avocados (Persea americana). Avocados are fruits, not seeds.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is extracted from the fruit of the olive tree (Olea europaea), specifically from the olive’s fleshy part. Olives are fruits, not seeds.
All oils run the risk of oxidation – so be sure you are not letting them go rancid.
Oils, particularly those high in polyunsaturated fats, are prone to oxidation when exposed to heat, light, and air. Oxidation can lead to the formation of free radicals and harmful compounds, which may contribute to inflammation and increase the risk of chronic diseases