Last verified: 17 days ago
Soybean Oil
Also known as: soy oil, Glycine max oil, vegetable oil (soy), linoleic acid oil
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Common cooking oil rich in linoleic acid; used as placebo in trials and as IV nutrition in hospitals.
-
What it does
Soybean oil is a widely consumed vegetable oil extracted from soybeans, rich in the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid. In clinical research, consuming about 30 g per day for 4 weeks increased...
-
Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
-
Clinical dose
No established dose
What the Science Says
Soybean oil is a widely consumed vegetable oil extracted from soybeans, rich in the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid. In clinical research, consuming about 30 g per day for 4 weeks increased linoleic acid levels in blood and cell membranes without causing weight gain. In hospital settings, it is used as an intravenous lipid emulsion to provide essential fatty acids and calories to patients, including premature infants, who cannot eat normally.
What It Doesn't Do
Not a proven supplement for weight loss, muscle building, or cognitive enhancement. No evidence it reduces inflammation in healthy adults. Being a common cooking oil doesn't make it a therapeutic supplement. Don't confuse its role as a placebo in fish oil studies with any active benefit.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Consuming 30g/day of soybean oil for 4 weeks raises linoleic acid levels in blood and red blood cells.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 30 g/day
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Soybean oil IV emulsions provide essential fatty acids to infants and children who cannot eat, without causing deficiency.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 1-3 g/kg/day (IV)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Good — dietary fats from soybean oil are well absorbed through normal digestion; linoleic acid is incorporated into blood and cell membranes within weeks of regular consumption.
Red Flags to Watch For
- High in omega-6 linoleic acid — animal research suggests a PUFA-rich diet may increase lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial DNA damage compared to saturated fat diets
- Frequently used as an inert placebo in clinical trials, meaning many studies are not testing soybean oil as a beneficial supplement
- IV soybean oil emulsions in neonates have been associated with concerns about liver disease (intestinal failure-associated liver disease), prompting use of mixed-oil alternatives
- Soybean oil is a common adulterant in premium oils like camellia oil — products labeled as other oils may contain undisclosed soybean oil
- Industrial and non-food uses (biodiesel, asphalt rejuvenation, polymer composites) are sometimes conflated with health applications in marketing
Products Containing Soybean Oil
See how Soybean Oil is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Soybean Oil do?
Common cooking oil rich in linoleic acid; used as placebo in trials and as IV nutrition in hospitals.
What is the effective dose of Soybean Oil?
No established dose
Is Soybean Oil safe?
High in omega-6 linoleic acid — animal research suggests a PUFA-rich diet may increase lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial DNA damage compared to saturated fat diets
What doesn't Soybean Oil do?
Not a proven supplement for weight loss, muscle building, or cognitive enhancement.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25