Researchers from the National University of Singapore have found that consumption of palm oil led to higher levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which translated into a 6 per cent higher risk of coronary heart disease and death.
However, not all clinical trials on humans have shown a link between palm oil consumption and LDL cholesterol levels, says Associate Professor Rob van Dam from the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, who has led a team to carry out a comprehensive review of relevant clinical trials.
Palm oil is widely used in Asia, and is generally used by food outlets and hawkers in Singapore. “Many people use ‘blended oil’ or ‘vegetable oil’ for home cooking. These are high in palm oil content,” adds Prof van Dam. “Although small amounts of palm oil are unlikely to have a large effect on LDL cholesterol and one’s risk of heart disease, many of us are eating large amounts of palm oil on a daily basis.”
Media Coverage:
- The Straits Times Mind & Body, 12 January 2016