According to a new study in Gut, one-third of the ulcerative colitis cases may be associated with high dietary intakes of linoleic acid (a n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid found in many cooking oils and margarines). This five-country European study found after four years of follow-up those who were in the highest quartile of linoleic acid intake showed a 2.5 fold increased risk for ulcerative colitis relative to the lowest quartile.
PositiveTip: To reduce your risk of ulcerative colitis go easy on the polyunsaturated fats, especially those from oils like safflower and corn oil. (Canola oil is much lower in linoleic acid.) Remember, you need some fat, but not too much!