Soya Bean Oil
Also known as: Soya bean oil, soybean oil, CAS number: 8001-22-7, Glycine max oil
Overview
Soya bean oil, scientifically known as Glycine max oil, is an edible vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the soybean plant. It is a widely used dietary fat source in cooking and a common ingredient in various food products and supplements. Characterized by its rich content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), it also contains beneficial phytosterols and vitamin E. While primarily consumed as a dietary fat, its components are increasingly recognized for functional benefits. Specifically, fractions of soybean oil are key components of Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU), a supplement used for managing osteoarthritis symptoms. Research on soybean oil and its derivatives is moderate, with robust evidence from randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its role in inflammation reduction and, particularly for ASU, in alleviating osteoarthritis symptoms.
Benefits
Soya bean oil, especially in its fractionated form as Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU), offers several evidence-based benefits. Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) consistently show that ASU, typically at doses around 300 mg/day, significantly reduces pain and improves functional impairment in individuals with osteoarthritis (OA). While ASU provides moderate symptom relief, its impact on structural joint changes remains unproven. Furthermore, broader soy supplementation, which includes components found in soybean oil, has been shown in meta-analyses to significantly reduce inflammatory biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), indicating a systemic anti-inflammatory effect. These benefits are particularly relevant for OA patients and individuals experiencing low-grade inflammation. Potential cardiovascular benefits, such as improved lipid profiles due to its PUFA content, are also suggested, though direct evidence for soybean oil alone in this context is less robust. Symptom improvements for OA typically manifest after several weeks to months of consistent ASU supplementation, while reductions in inflammatory markers can be observed within weeks.
How it works
Soya bean oil and its derivatives exert their effects primarily through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. The active components, particularly in Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU), modulate inflammatory cytokines and reduce the production of inflammatory mediators like C-reactive protein (CRP). This involves interaction with key biological pathways such as the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, which plays a central role in regulating immune responses and inflammation. In the context of osteoarthritis, ASU is believed to have chondroprotective effects, helping to preserve joint cartilage. The oil's polyunsaturated fatty acids also contribute to its interaction with the cardiovascular system by influencing lipid metabolism. Soybean oil is well absorbed as a dietary fat, and the components within ASU are bioavailable when taken orally.
Side effects
Soya bean oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when consumed at dietary levels, and Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU) formulations are well-tolerated in clinical trials. Common side effects, reported in over 5% of users, are typically mild and include gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) are primarily allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy. Rare side effects (less than 1%) are not well-documented, with no serious adverse events reported in high-quality randomized controlled trials. Caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions, particularly with anticoagulants, due to the vitamin E content in soybean oil, which can have mild blood-thinning effects. Contraindications include known soy allergy. While soybean oil itself contains minimal phytoestrogens compared to whole soy, individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions should exercise caution. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children, should consult a healthcare provider before using supplements containing soybean oil or ASU due to limited specific data in these populations.
Dosage
For Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU) in the management of osteoarthritis, the standard minimum effective dose is 300 mg per day. Optimal dosage ranges for ASU typically fall between 300-600 mg per day. For general dietary intake of soybean oil, dosage varies widely as it is a common cooking oil and dietary fat source, and should align with overall dietary fat recommendations. There is no established toxic dose for soybean oil, but high intake should be considered within total daily fat limits. Consistent daily intake is recommended for chronic conditions like osteoarthritis to achieve and maintain benefits. ASU is a standardized extract containing specific fractions of soybean oil, whereas pure soybean oil is used as a dietary fat. As a fat-soluble substance, its absorption is enhanced when consumed with meals containing fat. No specific cofactors are required for its efficacy, but a balanced diet is always recommended.
FAQs
Is soybean oil effective alone for osteoarthritis?
Evidence primarily supports Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU), which contains specific fractions of soybean oil, for osteoarthritis symptom relief, rather than pure soybean oil alone.
Can soybean oil reduce inflammation?
Yes, broader soy supplementation, including components found in soybean oil, has been shown to reduce inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP).
Are there safety concerns with long-term use?
Soybean oil and ASU are generally safe for long-term use with a low incidence of mild side effects. Soy allergy is the primary safety consideration.
When can benefits be expected?
For osteoarthritis, symptom relief with ASU may take several weeks to months. Reductions in inflammatory markers from soy supplementation can occur within weeks.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1473688/full – This systematic review examined the effects of ASU on osteoarthritis symptoms and progression. It found consistent symptom relief across studies, though a dose-response relationship was unclear and some studies showed no structural improvement. One veterinary trial was inconclusive due to low dosage.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31328413/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated ASU in hip and knee osteoarthritis. It found significant symptom improvement versus placebo with doses around 300 mg/day. The review noted no significant structural joint changes were confirmed, but the safety profile was favorable.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32979840/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of soy supplementation on inflammatory markers. It concluded that soy supplementation significantly reduced C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, indicating anti-inflammatory effects. The included trials had adequate sample sizes and controls, showing moderate effect sizes and no major safety concerns.