Are Seed Oils Bad For You? [What Are Inflammatory Foods?]

Quick answer: Are Seed Oils Bad For You What Are Inflammatory Foods affects roughly 1 in 4 adults in our practice. Effective treatment starts with a targeted diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Township practices. Call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Last reviewed: May 2026

Quick Answer

Are Seed Oils Bad For You? [What Are Inflammatory Foods?] relates to foot pain — typically caused by overuse, footwear, or biomechanics. Most patients improve in 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township: (810) 206-1402.

Watch: Dr. Tom Biernacki explains the topic in detail · Subscribe to Michigan Foot Doctors on YouTube

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

Are Seed Oils Bad For You? [What Are Inflammatory Foods?]

🦶Seed oils, such as soybean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, and safflower oil, have been debated regarding their health effects. These oils are commonly used in cooking and food processing due to their affordability and high smoke points. However, their high omega-6 fatty acid content and processing methods have raised concerns.🦶

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The primary issue with seed oils is their omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio. While omega-6 fatty acids are essential for the body, an excessive intake of omega-6 fatty acids compared to omega-3 fatty acids can lead to an imbalance and potentially promote inflammation. Western diets tend to be higher in omega-6 fatty acids and lower in omega-3 fatty acids, which may contribute to chronic inflammation.

That being said, it’s important to note that the impact of seed oils on inflammation can vary among individuals and depend on overall dietary patterns. If consumed in moderation and as part of a well-balanced diet that includes several foods, seed oils may not necessarily be harmful.

In terms of inflammatory foods, it’s important to remember that the relationship between food and inflammation is complex and can differ among individuals. However, some foods have been associated with increased inflammation in certain individuals:

Processed and refined carbohydrates: Foods high in refined sugars, such as sugary drinks, pastries, and white bread, can cause spikes in blood sugar levels and promote inflammation.

Trans fats: Trans fats, found in partially hydrogenated oils and many processed and fried foods, have been linked to increased inflammation and higher risk of heart disease. It’s advisable to limit or avoid foods containing trans fats.

Saturated fats: While not all saturated fats are considered inflammatory, excessive intake of foods high in saturated fats, such as fatty meats and full-fat dairy products, may contribute to inflammation in some individuals.

Highly processed and fried foods: Processed snacks, fast food, and deep-fried foods often contain high levels of unhealthy fats, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars, promoting inflammation when consumed regularly.

Excessive alcohol: Heavy and chronic alcohol consumption can trigger inflammation in the body, particularly in the liver, contributing to conditions such as alcoholic hepatitis or cirrhosis.

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DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2 separate traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and Foot & Ankle Surgery separately. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” about himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist in Michigan. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best if you did not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

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Worried About Seed Oils and Inflammation?

Inflammatory foods can worsen foot conditions like neuropathy, plantar fasciitis, and arthritis. Our podiatrists help patients understand the diet-foot health connection.

Clinical References

  1. Simopoulos AP. An increase in the omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio increases the risk for obesity. Nutrients. 2016;8(3):128.
  2. Patterson E, et al. Health implications of high dietary omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. J Nutr Metab. 2012;2012:539426.
  3. Innes JK, Calder PC. Omega-6 fatty acids and inflammation. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2018;132:41-48.

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Are Seed Oils Bad For You What Are Inflammatory Foods 2 - Balance Foot & Ankle

When to See a Podiatrist

If foot or ankle pain has been bothering you for more than a few weeks, home care alone may not be enough. Balance Foot & Ankle offers online booking 24/7 at our Howell and Bloomfield Township clinics — no referral needed in most cases. Bring your current shoes and a short list of symptoms and we’ll build you a treatment plan in one visit.

Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402  ·  Book online  ·  Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Township

Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care

Advantages

  • ✓ Conservative care first
  • ✓ Book online 24/7
  • ✓ Multiple insurance accepted

Considerations

  • ✗ Self-treatment can mask issues
  • ✗ See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks

Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care

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More questions patients ask

Are seed oils bad for foot health and inflammation?

Refined seed oils (soybean, corn, sunflower, canola) are high in omega-6 fatty acids that, in excess relative to omega-3s, promote inflammatory pathways. The modern Western diet has a very unfavorable omega-6:omega-3 ratio (~15:1 vs ideal ~3:1). This excess inflammation worsens plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and tendinitis. Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 discusses dietary inflammatory factors in foot conditions.

What is the most inflammatory cooking oil?

Highly refined polyunsaturated oils (soybean, corn, cottonseed) that are heat-processed develop trans fats and aldehydes that drive inflammation. Extra-virgin olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil are better choices for foot health. Balance Foot & Ankle at 4330 E Grand River, Howell and 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township encourages anti-inflammatory cooking practices as complements to podiatric treatment.

What are the most inflammatory foods that worsen foot and joint pain?

The most inflammatory foods include: seed oils and fried foods, sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, refined carbohydrates, processed and red meats, artificial trans fats, and alcohol (in excess). Reducing these foods while increasing omega-3s and antioxidants significantly reduces joint and tendon inflammation. Balance Foot & Ankle provides dietary guidance alongside podiatric care.

Is inflammation from seed oils linked to plantar fasciitis?

Systemic inflammation from a pro-inflammatory diet can contribute to and maintain plantar fasciitis — the fascia is more susceptible to inflammatory damage when systemic inflammatory burden is high. Switching to anti-inflammatory foods and oils (olive oil, fatty fish) reduces this background inflammation. Balance Foot & Ankle considers the dietary context in managing chronic plantar fasciitis. Call (810) 206-1402.

What are the best anti-inflammatory oils for cooking?

Extra-virgin olive oil (highest oleocanthal anti-inflammatory content), avocado oil (stable at high heat, good omega-3:6 ratio), coconut oil (saturated, stable, medium-chain triglycerides), and ghee (saturated, stable, vitamin K2). Balance Foot & Ankle encourages patients with inflammatory foot conditions to choose these oils as part of a comprehensive anti-inflammatory dietary strategy.

Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.

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