Episode Details

Are the so-called "heart-healthy" vegetable oils in your kitchen truly supporting your health—or could they be contributing to inflammation and metabolic imbalance? In this episode of Growing Older Living Younger, Dr. Gillian Lockitch speaks with nutrition expert Cherie Calbom, MS, CN, about industrial seed oils such as canola, soybean, sunflower, and corn oil, and the growing concerns surrounding their role in oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and healthy aging. Cherie explains how highly processed oils may affect metabolic health, brain function, and overall wellness, and shares practical guidance on choosing healthier fats and using nutrition strategies—including juicing—to support vitality and longevity. This conversation offers actionable insights for anyone who wants to reduce inflammation, make more informed food choices, and age with greater energy and resilience.Cherie Calbom, MS, CN, is a certified nutritionist, wellness educator, and bestselling author widely known as "The Juice Lady." She holds a Master of Science degree in nutrition and has written 36 books, including the classic Juicing for Life. Cherie has received two Lifetime Achievement Awards for her pioneering contributions to nutrition and wellness education. She has served on the Board of Regents at Bastyr University and has advised high-profile leaders, including George Foreman. Her latest book, The Truth About Seed Oils, challenges conventional dietary advice and offers practical strategies to reduce inflammation and support better health.

Episode Timeline

00:00 – Introduction and episode overview

Dr. Gillian introduces the controversy surrounding industrial seed oils and their potential role in inflammation and chronic disease.

03:13 – Cherie's healing journey

Cherie shares how she overcame chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia through juicing and whole food nutrition.

07:53 – The first healing juice recipes

The vegetable juices Cherie used to restore her health and why variety matters.

10:20 – The NAMA J2 juicer

Cherie describes her favorite hands-free juicer and how it simplifies daily juicing.

11:50 – What are seed oils?

A historical overview of vegetable oils and how they became mainstream.

16:48 – Why canola oil became so dominant

The economic reasons manufacturers favor cheap industrial oils.

18:57 – The chemistry of oxidation and inflammation

How polyunsaturated fats become unstable and generate harmful byproducts.

21:10 – The worst oils to avoid

Soybean, canola, corn, sunflower, safflower, cottonseed, grapeseed, and rice bran oils.

22:43 – Healthy fats to use instead