Soybean oil is safer than corn oil, but not nearly as healthful as olive oil and canola oil, research suggests. Experts agree that saturated fat in animal products is a prime enemy in raising cholesterol and clogging arteries, leading to cardiovascular disease. It may harm immune functioning and increase cancer risk. In a six-month study by Harvard researcher George L. Blackburn, daily doses of corn oil doubled the odds of recurrence and spread of colon cancer. Some experts, such as Harvard researcher Walter Willett, blame trans-fatty acids, especially margarine, for high rates of heart disease.
Some evidence finds trans fats as bad as saturated fats in raising cholesterol.
If you use margarine, choose tub or liquid over stick. Other vegetable fats have little saturated fat, but these tropical fats are 50-85 percent saturated fat. Federal guidelines say no more than 30 percent of daily calories in fat, with no more than 10 percent in saturated fat. Many experts say the total should be 10 to 20 percent to reverse heart disease and prevent cancer. Many experts say the type of fat is as important as how much.