Cooking oils are the base for almost all cooking. They are used to prepare chicken, meat, vegetables, and other foods. Checking your oil’s smoke point is important, because if you go past this level, it can release toxins and free radicals that are harmful to the body.
Oils contain saturated, trans, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats. Any oil that you use should contain a low percentage of both saturated and trans fats. Conversely, there should be a high percentage of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in your cooking oil.
Saturated and trans fats are unhealthy, because they increase harmful cholesterol. On the other hand, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are healthy, because they improve cholesterol and decrease inflammation.
Your cooking oil will break down when the temperature isn’t stable, and it will release acrolein, which can create a noxious flavor in your food. Also, airborne acrolein may be perilous to your lungs.
The monounsaturated fats in avocado oil reduce cholesterol and high blood pressure. Avocado oil also has benefits for hair and skin, and it is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, D and E.
Olive oil contains lots of polyphenols, which help against inflammation and lower your risk of diseases. Polyphenols are also found in fruits, vegetables, herbs, tea, and coffee.
Coconut oil contains MCTs, which can help with weight loss and improve the function of the brain. Coconut oil has antioxidants and is great for your skin and hair.
Other popular cooking oils include corn oil, canola oil, soybean oil, safflower oil, and sunflower oil. These oils are higher in saturated fats, and they are more common and cheaper than other cooking oils. However, you should try to avoid them, because they can cause cellular damage.
All in all, you should definitely understand the benefits and drawbacks of the cooking oils that you use. You may already be using good oils, but these oils are also in processed foods, cookies, ice cream, and other products. Explore what is inside what you eat every day, so that you can maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay alive for many years to come.
