Palm oil is one of the most widely used vegetable oils in the world, and it’s present in many everyday products, from food and cosmetics to cleaning solutions and biofuels. While it has many benefits, such as its high yield and versatility, there are growing concerns about how palm oil affects human health, I mean its negative effects.
Table of Contents
1) Palm Oil Causes Cardiovascular Health Issues
It is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Too much saturated fat can increase LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels in the blood. It also leads to plaque buildup in arteries and increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases.
2) Palm Oil Boosts Diabetes Chances
The high glycemic index of this vegetable oil can lead to a sharp rise in blood sugar levels, making it a problematic ingredient for people with diabetes. A study by the University of Cambridge found that people who consumed a diet high in palm oil had a 60% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
3) Cancer
Studies have shown that consuming a diet high in unsaturated fats, such as palm oil, can increase the risk of developing various types of cancer that affect human health. The carcinogenic compounds in palm oil include glycidyl fatty acid esters (GEs) and 3-monochloropropanediol (3-MCPD), formed during high-heat oil processing.
4) Obesity
It is highly calorie-dense. It can contribute to weight gain and obesity when consumed in excess. Excess dietary fat is stored in adipose tissue or “fat cells,” increasing body mass index (BMI) and elevating the risk of obesity-related diseases, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
5) Palm Oil Causes Hormone Disruption
It is high in beta-carotene and vitamin E, essential human health nutrients. However, when consumed in excess, these nutrients can disrupt hormone levels. It can lead to mood swings, decreased libido, and other hormonal imbalances.
6) Allergies
It is a common allergen, especially among children. Symptoms of palm oil allergy may include hives, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, and digestive issues. It is in the production of cosmetics and personal care products, which can also have negative effects on human health. Many of these products contain chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin and into the body. It leads to various health problems. For example, some personal care products containing palm oil cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and hormone disruption.
Conclusion
While it is a versatile and widely used ingredient, it has several negative effects on human health when consumed in excess or due to industrial processing.
It’s important to note that most of the negative effects of palm oil consumption are related to excessive intake. As with any fat, consuming it in moderation is essential as part of a well-balanced diet. Moderate consumption may not have significant negative effects on human health. These are ways in which Palm oil affects the human life system and leads to cancer, hormone mal-functions, allergies, obesity, diabetes, and so on.