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6 days ago1 min read

Are Seed Oils Causing the Obesity Epidemic?

EconBuff #53 with Tyler Ransom




Dr. Tyler Ransom talks with me about seed oils and their potential role in the American obesity epidemic. Dr. Ransom describes what seed oils are and how they are made. Dr. Ransom presents a hypothesis that increased consumption of these oils has been a major, yet often overlooked, factor driving obesity rates in the U.S. since the 1960s. We explore the trends of the traditional explanations for obesity. Dr. Ransom argues that the trends in sugar consumption, calorie consumption, and exercise do not explain the trends in obesity since the 1960s. Dr. Ransom explains how seed oils have altered metabolism, fat storage, and other biochemical processes, supporting his points with findings from both biochemistry and economics research. We discuss the concept of "imperfect information" and how it has contributed to the overconsumption of seed oils, influenced by interactions among food and drug companies, scientists, government regulators, and healthcare providers. Dr. Ransom details how these groups shape dietary information and impact the food supply. Finally, we consider the broader policy implications of our discussion, highlighting the need for a coordinated approach to address these issues effectively.


SE6: E1


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Show Notes:


Books mentioned during our conversation:

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