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3 Common Foods High in Linoleic Acid You Should Drop

3 Common Foods High in Linoleic Acid You Should Drop

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After learning about how cooking oils can increase inflammation, let's identify three common foods high in linoleic acid (LA) that might be affecting your PCOS symptoms.

1. Store-Bought Mayonnaise

Why It's Problematic

  • Made with soybean or canola oil (50-60% LA)
  • Often contains added sugars
  • Hidden in many prepared foods

Better Alternatives

  • Make homemade mayo with avocado oil
  • Use Greek yogurt in recipes
  • Try mashed avocado

2. Commercial Salad Dressings

Why They're Issues

  • Usually made with sunflower/soybean oil
  • Contains multiple inflammatory oils
  • Often used daily

Better Options

  • Make dressings with olive oil
  • Use vinegar and herbs
  • Try lemon juice based dressings

3. Packaged Baked Goods

Why They're Problematic

  • Contains vegetable/seed oils
  • High in processed fats
  • Often combined with sugar

Better Choices

  • Bake at home using better oils
  • Choose coconut oil based treats
  • Look for olive oil baked goods

Easy Swaps to Make Today

For Mayonnaise

Try our recipes:

For Salad Dressings

Make these instead:

  • Olive oil and lemon
  • Apple cider vinaigrette
  • Tahini-based dressing

For Baked Goods

Try these alternatives:

Reading Labels

Watch for these ingredients:

  • Soybean oil
  • Vegetable oil
  • Sunflower oil
  • Cottonseed oil
  • Canola oil

Making the Transition

Week 1: Replace Mayo

  • Buy or make better alternatives
  • Read sandwich spread labels
  • Try new recipes

Week 2: Switch Dressings

  • Clear out old dressings
  • Make fresh alternatives
  • Learn simple recipes

Week 3: Transform Baking

  • Stock better oils
  • Find new recipes
  • Practice with alternatives

Shopping Tips

Look for products made with:

  • Olive oil
  • Avocado oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Macadamia nut oil

Pro Tip: Prepare batches of PCOS-friendly alternatives on weekends to have them ready all week!

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