Abstract

Background: Canola oil (CO) stands out for its balanced lipid profile, high in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) (~62%) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (~29%), with a low saturated fatty acid (SFA) content (~7%). In addition, it contains bioactive compounds such as phytosterols, tocopherols, and polyphenols, whose content varies depending on the extraction method. Scientific evidence suggests that its consumption could exert beneficial effects on cardiometabolic and inflammatory parameters, contributing to the prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs), which positions CO as functional food of interest in public health. Objective: To critically analyze the available scientific evidence on the preventive role of CO in NCCDs. Results: The consumption of CO, in the context of a healthy diet, may favor the prevention and management of NCCDs such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension (HTN), and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Several studies have reported improvements in lipid profiles, reductions in body weight and visceral fat, improved glycemic control, and decreased blood pressure. In the cardiovascular aspect, CO consumption is associated with lower all-cause mortality and cardiometabolic mortality, reinforcing its role as a healthy option for the prevention of NCDs and CVD. Conclusion: AC, due to its MUFA and bioactive compounds content, shows beneficial effects on cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammatory health, and a possible role in the prevention of certain types of cancer. However, further controlled clinical studies in humans are needed to confirm its long-term impact and establish evidence-based recommendations. © 2025 Sociedad Chilena de Nutrición, Bromatología y Toxicología.