Why should you stop using vegetable oil now?

‘Vegetable oils’ is a category that contains various oils that are derived from plants. For example- sunflower oil, canola oil, soybeans oil etc. Many vegetable oils are also a combination of oils such as canola, soybeans, palm, corn and sunflower oil. There has been a surge in the use of refined vegetable oils in the past decade. But are they healthy? Read on:

Vegetable oils are not extracted by natural pressing but are actually obtained with the help of chemicals. However, the damage does not stop there. The oil is then deodorised and modified before it makes it to the shelf of your grocery store or supermarket. The grains are combined with a chemical called ‘hexane’ to pull out the maximum oil. It is then boiled to remove solid wax, which results in the oil getting oxidised. The oil is then cooled, bleached and degummed with more chemicals to remove impurities further. It is then chemically deodorised. You are indirectly consuming these many chemicals when you decide to make your food in vegetable oil.

Anything that is subjected to so many chemicals cannot be suitable for the body. Oxidised oils are known to cause inflammation and pain in the body, even after the oil looks and smells fine. Vegetable oils are rich in polyunsaturated fats that our body is not meant to consume. The cause mutations in the cells and clog the arteries. If unhealthy fats enter the skin, they can also contribute to skin cancer. Vegetable oils are rich in omega 6, that causes accelerated growth of cancer cells, blood clotting and increased inflammation in the body. The imbalance of omega 3 and 6 leads to heart diseases, autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and even cancer. As per some studies, it is believed that vegetable oils also convert the good cholesterol (HDL) present in the body into bad cholesterol (LDL).

Many vegetable oils, especially corn, canola and soybeans, are made with grains that contain genetically modified organisms (GMO). These are usually treated with a lot of pesticides and are biologically modified, thus, making them unsafe for consumption. Fortunately, there are some readily available alternatives to vegetable oil that you should consider adopting in your cooking.

Cow Ghee

Ghee contains fats that have a high smoke point, thus making them very hard to oxidise and change into unhealthy fats. It helps the stomach release acids that aid digestion. It is also rich in antioxidants that enable proper absorption of minerals and vitamins from other foods and thus make the immune system healthy. Ghee is loaded with a fair amount of butyric acid, which is a beneficial fatty acid that has anti-viral qualities.

Butter

Really! As long as you are using natural, unprocessed or homemade butter. If you must buy, try to choose organic butter that comes from grass-fed and pasteurised cows. Butter is a fantastic source of healthy fats and contains a compound called ‘Activator X’, that not only enhances the absorption of nutrients but also protects against numerous diseases.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Low on polyunsaturated fats and packed in monounsaturated fats, extra virgin olive oil can be an excellent pick for cold recipes and salad dressings. Be aware that olive oil, even when cold-pressed has a low smoke point. Therefore, ensure to cook your food at low temperature when using olive oil to prevent it from oxidising. Always choose extra virgin olive oils that come in dark packages as even light can oxidise them.

Cold Pressed Mustard Oil

Mustard oil is rich in essential fatty acids and natural antioxidants. They are both required to maintain a healthy heart. The oil is loaded with monounsaturated fatty acids and also reduces bad cholesterol while promoting good cholesterol. Mustard oil contains ample amount of omega 3 and other essential fatty acids that are required by the body for healthy functioning. It is also easily affordable and widely available.

Cold Pressed Sesame Oil

Sesame oils are made with sesame seeds and have a high smoke point, which makes them perfect for cooking. Apart from being a storehouse of health, they are also much more flavourful when compared to vegetable oil. However, some people refrain from using it in baking projects due to its strong flavour. Also, ensure that you are not allergic to sesame before replacing your vegetable oil with this one.

Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil

Groundnut oil or peanut oil has a significant concentration of monounsaturated fats. It is also low in saturated fats. It imparts a light flavour and is suitable for cooking. It works incredibly well for Asian dishes that are made in a wok. Groundnut oil is readily available in India and is an affordable option when compared to others in the category. However, make sure that you do not have any nut allergies before choosing this oil.