America’s Most Popular Cooking Oil Linked to Obesity in New StudyDec 01, 2025 at 10:18 AM EST By Jasmine Laws, US News Reporter A new study has found that soybean oil contributed to obesity in mice, prompting concern that the United States' most popular cooking oil could be playing a role in the country's obesity problem. The University of California, Riverside study, published in the Journal of Lipid Research in October, investigated how mice metabolized linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid widely present in soybean oil, by feeding them a high-fat diet based on the common cooking oil. While the study was conducted on mice, Frances Sladek, a UCR professor of cell biology and author of the study, told Newsweek that the findings "were translatable to humans as the pathways we found involved in soybean oil-induced obesity are highly conserved between mouse and human." Why It MattersSoybean oil is by far the most widely used cooking oil in the country, with rapeseed oil second and palm oil third, according to data from Statista. Soybean oil is also made up of more than 50 percent linoleic acid, Sladek said. The finding raises notable concern, not only because of the oil's popularity, but also because of America's high obesity rates—one in five children and two in five adults are obese in the U.S., meaning they have a Body Mass Index (BMI) higher than 30. Obesity is known to be associated with higher risks of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease and strokes. The American diet has also been called into question by studies previously, as last year a study found that the majority of Americans ate a diet that promoted inflammation, increasing the risk of diseases such as heart disease, obesity, diabetes, depression and certain cancers. Stock image: A person pours soybean oil into a frying pan. | coffeekai/Getty Images What To KnowThe study specifically examined the effects of molecules called oxylipins on mice. These molecules are what linoleic acid is broken down into in the body, and so the higher the consumption of the acid, the higher the amount of these molecules will be in the body. While other fatty acids also break down into oxylipins, the oxylipins derived from linoleic acid were the ones the authors found contributed to obesity in mice. The finding is not new; the researchers noted this result in a previous study. What they did differently in this study was test the impact of a diet high in soybean oil in a group of male mice genetically engineered to express a different version of a liver regulatory gene, P2-HNF4α. This meant they had different metabolic pathways from the control group, as the genetic change reduced the activity of enzymes that convert linoleic acid into oxylipins. The researchers found that the modified mice had healthier livers and gained less weight than the control group on the same diet, further supporting the idea that oxylipins contribute to obesity. “This may be the first step toward understanding why some people gain weight more easily than others on a diet high in soybean oil,” said Sonia Deol, a UCR biomedical scientist and another author of the study. Although the researchers also note that the genetically modified mice had elevated oxylipins on a low-fat diet without becoming obese, suggesting that other metabolic factors are at play. Sladek said that they found that "it is the levels of the oxylipins present in the liver, not circulating in the blood, that correlate with obesity." However, he said that they aren't yet certain about "exactly how the oxylipins drive obesity." How Much Soybean Oil Do Americans Actually Consume?Consuming a small amount of linoleic acid is actually required for human health and is part of a healthy diet; however, the researchers noted that America has had a "remarkable increase" in its consumption of the oil over the past 50 years. The required amount of linoleic acid for health is around 1 to 2 percent of a person's calorific intake, the study authors noted, as small amounts play an important role in maintaining good health. Most Americans broadly have a much higher intake of linoleic acid at around 15 to 25 percent of their calorific intake, the study authors said. Sladek said that consuming small amounts of soybean oil is "perfectly safe and provides a good source of the essential fatty acid linoleic acid." He said that the problem is that "processed foods are becoming an ever larger part of our diet and many of those foods have soybean oil in them, or they have corn oil, safflower seed oil, sunflower seed oil — all these seed oils are made up of large amounts of linoleic acid, just like soybean oil." "So in general, we are taking in much more of these seed oils, all of which have high levels of linoleic acid, than our body needs," he added. What Does Soybean Oil Do to Your Body?It is not clear from the study how these findings would translate to the human body, and further research is needed to determine the impact of soybean oil on human health. However, the study authors note that the findings suggest the possible link warrants further investigation. Sladek said: "It took 100 years from the first observed link between chewing tobacco and cancer to get warning labels on cigarettes. We hope it won’t take that long for society to recognize the link between excessive soybean oil consumption and negative health effects." He also told Newsweek that in previous research, the team found that the soybean oil could impact the intestines, the microbiome and the hypothalamus. He said that while there is a growing body of evidence indicating that dietary linoleic acid is beneficial for the heart, "we have not looked at the impact of a soybean oil diet on the heart." "Different organs will respond differently to dietary linoleic acid and more research in general needs to be done," Sladek added. Other experts are not convinced of the findings, though. Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, the director of the Food is Medicine Institute at Tufts University, told Newsweek: "Much of the original research suggesting harms of omega-6 [polyunsaturated fatty acids], like this study, was done in mice or rats." "We’ve since clearly learned that humans are not mice, and that these effects don’t translate to what’s seen in humans," Mozaffarian said. "In mice, for example, high fat diets (from any source) cause obesity, whereas in humans, carbs are the problem." He said that in controlled trials in humans, soybean oil and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids were found to "improve blood cholesterol levels, improve glucose control, and lower risk of heart attacks," while in "observational studies," these oils are "linked to less weight gain and obesity risk." Mozaffarian said that soybean oil is a "healthy oil for cooking," and pointed to studies finding that a tablespoon and a half daily of soybean oil could reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, that the oil does not have pro-inflammatory effects, and that those who consumed 5 grams a day had a lower risk of "all-cause mortality." ARTICLE SOURCE: https://www.newsweek.com/soybean-oil-linked-to-obesity-study-11133940
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comment_1654Dementia is a debilitating condition that affects memory, cognition, and overall brain function. While many factors can contribute to the development of dementia, recent research has suggested a potential link between certain medications and an increased risk of developing dementia-related symptoms. It is important to note that these medications do not directly cause dementia, but they may be associated with an increased risk. This article will discuss ten medications that have been linked to dementia and some actionable steps to reduce the risk of developing this illness.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term that refers to a decline in cognitive function, including memory loss, impaired judgment and reasoning skills, and changes in personality. It is not a specific disease but rather a group of symptoms that many different conditions can cause. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's disease (AD), which accounts for 60-80% of all cases. Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning that it gets worse over time. The symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the cause and severity of the disease, but they generally include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language or communication skills, and changes in personality or behavior.
The exact cause of dementia is still unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The risk of developing dementia increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over 65 years old. While there is currently no cure for Dementia, there are treatments to help manage the symptoms. Recently, researchers have found that certain medications may contribute to the risk of developing the disease.
Medications Linked to Dementia
Medications are important and have helped many people to live longer happier lives. That being said, some medications have side effects or other negative impacts on health that we are only still discovering. One of these is their role in the risk of developing dementia. The following ten medications have been found to have a potential role in increasing dementia risk (1😞
1. Anticholinergics and Antihistamines
This class of medications is commonly prescribed for various conditions such as allergies, overactive bladder, and depression. An example of this would be the common anti-allergy drug, Benadryl. Research suggests that long-term use of anticholinergic drugs may be associated with an increased risk of dementia. It is advised to explore alternative treatment options or speak with a healthcare professional to manage these conditions without relying on anticholinergic drugs. (2, 3)
Certain over-the-counter antihistamines, including diphenhydramine, have been associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. It is recommended to limit the use of these medications, especially in older adults, and consider alternative options for managing allergies or sleep issues.
2. Benzodiazepines
These medications are often prescribed as sedatives or muscle relaxants. Studies have found a potential link between long-term benzodiazepine use and an increased risk of dementia. If possible, it is recommended to explore non-pharmacological approaches or consider alternative medications with fewer side effects.
3. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
PPIs are commonly prescribed for acid reflux and stomach ulcers. While PPIs are generally safe for short-term use, long-term use has been associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. It is advisable to use PPIs only when necessary and for the shortest period possible.
4. Antidepressants
Certain types of antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), have been linked to a higher risk of dementia. However, the risk appears to be relatively small and varies depending on individual factors. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of antidepressant use with a healthcare professional. (4)
5. Antipsychotics
These medications are commonly prescribed for conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. While antipsychotics can be beneficial for managing severe mental illnesses, long-term use has been associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. It is essential to regularly review and reassess the necessity of antipsychotic medications and explore non-pharmacological interventions whenever possible.
6. Sleeping Pills
Medications commonly used to treat insomnia, such as zolpidem and zaleplon, have been linked to an increased risk of dementia. It is advisable first to explore behavioral and lifestyle changes to improve sleep quality before considering medication options.
7. Statins
Statins are widely prescribed to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. There is some evidence suggesting that statin use may be associated with a higher risk of dementia. However, the benefits of statins in preventing heart disease often outweigh the potential risks. It is crucial to have an informed discussion with a healthcare professional regarding the benefits and risks of statin use.
8. Pain Medications
Pain medications are commonly used to treat chronic pain. There is some evidence suggesting that long-term use of opioids may increase the risk of dementia. However, the benefits of pain relief often outweigh the potential risks. It is crucial to have an informed discussion with a healthcare professional regarding the benefits and risks of opioid use. NSAIDs have also been found to increase the risk of dementia. The risk will depend on how often you have to use them. Again, the benefits of pain relief are likely more impactful on your health than the risk of dementia, so speak with your doctor if you have concerns.
9. Medications for Bladder Control
Some medications used to manage overactive bladder, such as oxybutynin, have been linked to an increased risk of dementia. It is advisable to explore non-pharmacological approaches, behavioral modifications, or alternative medications with fewer cognitive side effects.
10. Corticosteroids
Long-term use of corticosteroids, commonly prescribed to manage conditions like asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases, has been associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. It is important to use corticosteroids at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible.
Reducing the Risk of Developing Dementia
While the above medications have been associated with an increased risk of dementia, it is essential to note that individual responses to medications may vary. To best try and reduce the risk of developing dementia for those taking these medications, consider the following actionable steps (5😞
General Dementia Prevention Strategies
While medication-related cognitive decline is one aspect of dementia risk, there are several general strategies that can help reduce the overall risk of developing dementia:
By following these actionable steps and general dementia prevention strategies, individuals can potentially reduce their risk of developing dementia, especially when medication use is a concern.
It is important to note that the relationship between medications and dementia risk is complex, and individual factors can significantly influence the level of risk. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and guidance regarding medication use and dementia prevention.
Sources
"How can I reduce the risk of dementia?" Alzheimer
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
The post 10 Medications Linked to Dementia appeared first on The Hearty Soul.
ARTICLE SOURCE: https://theheartysoul.com/medications-and-dementia-risk/
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