Fats and oils are essential components of human health. They are used in diets to give a health boost. You can consume these necessary fats through supplements, like those found at Vita Health NZ, or you can try and get your daily dose through natural foods. Oils help in cell growth and protect body organs. They also play a role in nutrient absorption. However, not all oils are good for your health.
Here Are The Top 5 Oils To Consume For Good Health.
Olive Oil
This edible oil is available in two primary forms: extra-virgin and light olive oil. Extra-virgin is the most well-known type of olive oil. It’s often used in preparing cool dishes like salads, dips, and dressings. It can also be used for sautéing at low temperatures. Extra-virgin olive oil is extracted without using chemicals. It’s pure and the highest grade.
The light olive oil is used for sautéing, grilling, roasting, and baking. This type of olive oil is extracted using chemicals and has a higher smoke point of 470°F (243°C. This makes it more useful in high-temperature cooking than the ones mentioned above. It has a more neutral taste than the extra-virgin version.
Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil contains alpha-linolenic acid, which is a form of omega-3 fatty acids. The other forms of omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish, such as sardines, salmon, and mackerel. By consuming flaxseed oil, you can reduce the chances of getting arthritis. Additionally, flaxseed oil is a good source of omega-6 fatty acids, which are equally suitable for your health. Higher levels of omega-6 fatty acids in the body can lower the chances of debilitating conditions such as stroke, heart disease, or early death.
Avocado Oil
Avocados are an excellent source of healthy, monounsaturated fats, and their oil is equally beneficial. Refined avocado oil has the highest smoke point of all plant oils. Therefore, it’s ideal for high-temperature cooking such as roasting, searing, frying, and grilling. In choosing avocado oil, it’s often advisable to use the refined version to deliver a mild, inconspicuous taste.
Walnut Oil
Walnut is another healthy choice of edible oil. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, mainly alpha-linolenic acid. This type of oil is unrefined, so its smoke point is relatively low. It’s not ideal for cooking. However, walnut oil comes with a rich, nutty flavor, which is suitable for salad dressings. You can also use it as a flavor booster for a specific dish.
Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is a staple of Indian and Asian cooking. This polyunsaturated fat is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These qualities can help lower the chances of cardiovascular diseases. Consuming it can help prevent a condition known as atherosclerosis, according to American Heart Association. Besides, sesame oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for high-heat cooking such as stir-frying. With its strong flavor, it can be dominating, and only a little goes a long way. This list is not exhaustive, as there are other healthy edible oils such as grape seed oil, sunflower oil, or peanut oil. These oils are proven to be healthy and natural. There are also other oils to limit or avoid. Learn more.