Nutrition debates today often feel more ideological than scientific. One of the biggest examples is the ongoing controversy around seed oils, where strong opinions exist on both sides but clear understanding is often missing. 

In this episode, Ted speaks with nutrition scientist Christopher Masterjohn to explore the history and research behind seed oils, cholesterol, fatty liver disease, and oxidative stress. They also discuss why nutrition debates become polarized, how choline intake influences liver health, and why metabolic markers like glucose and lactate can offer useful insights into personal metabolism.  

If you want a deeper, more nuanced understanding of one of the most debated topics in nutrition—and practical ways to think about your own diet—this conversation will challenge assumptions and expand your perspective. Listen now. 

Today's Guest 

Christopher Masterjohn 

Christopher Masterjohn is a nutrition scientist with a PhD in Nutritional Sciences. His work focuses on metabolism, micronutrients, and the biochemical mechanisms that influence long-term health. Through his research, writing, and educational platforms, he helps people understand how diet, metabolism, and lifestyle interact to shape metabolic health. 

 

Connect to Christopher Masterjohn 

Website: https://www.chrismasterjohn-phd.com  

Instagram: @chrismasterjohn 

 X: @ChrisMasterjohn 

 Substack: Harnessing the Power of Nutrients 

 YouTube: @chrismasterjohn 

Podcast: Mastering Nutrition Podcast 

 

You'll learn: 

• Why seed oils became widely promoted—and why the science remains controversial 

• How polyunsaturated fats influence oxidative stress and long-term disease risk 

• The overlooked role of choline in preventing fatty liver and supporting metabolic health 

• How tracking glucose and lactate can provide deeper insight into metabolic function 

 

Chapters: 

00:00 Introduction 

02:43 Seed Oils Defined 

04:20 PUFAs Oxidation Risks 

05:53 Heart Disease History 

07:51 Trials Cancer Concerns 

10:49 Null Hypothesis Debate 

18:34 Choline Fatty Liver 

33:50 Added Oils and Real Life 

39:40 Muscle Over Fat Loss 

44:24 Accidental Deficits Example 

46:14 Coaching Psychology Nuance 

50:59 Lactate and Mitochondria 

56:11 Wrap Up and Where to Find