Is Palm Oil Healthy To Eat
What Experts Say About This …
According to studies and research – some ingredients have become popular for good reasons –
like
(i). Blueberries are rich in antioxidants,
(ii). Avocados contain healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health,
(iii). Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and provides a natural glow,
they are now considered more than just a food ingredient and are considered superheroes of the everyday plate.
Also Read: Top 5 Black Coffee Health Benefits; A refreshing and energizing way to begin the day
Is Palm Oil Healthy To Eat | Foods that fought back
Some popular items once had a bad image but science helped change that.
- Eggs: Once considered dangerous because of the cholesterol they contain, they are now known to improve brain and eye health due to their rich protein and nutrients.
- Bananas: People on a low-carb diet tend to avoid eating them but they are rich in potassium, fiber and vitamin B6 which are great for heart and gut health..
If we talk about these examples described above that food is not always good or bad and depends on how it is used. One ingredient that is often misunderstood is palm oil, Although it has mix of opinion available in market.
Like all nutrition topics that palm oil is not black or white. It is not about removing one oil or food completely. What matters more is understanding what goes into our daily meals.
If fresh and well stored palm oil is used in moderation it can certainly be considered along with other good oils and can even be part of a healthy lifestyle.
What is Palm Oil?
Palm oil is extracted from the fruit of the palm tree and consumed in many foods such as bread, biscuits, instant noodles and snacks.
This is because it is stable, economical and works well even in high heat. According to fitness and nutrition coach Vijay Thakkar – palm oil has a unique mix of fats – which include
- 50% saturated fats
- 40% monounsaturated fats (good for the heart)
- 10% polyunsaturated fats
This balance helps reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) when part of a proper diet.
It’s high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in excess.
Is Palm Oil Healthy To Eat | The power of Tocotrienols
Another great benefit of palm oil is the tocotrienols it contains. Tocotrienols are a special type of vitamin E that has antioxidant properties and helps improve the health of the brain, heart and even the immune system.
Zero trans fats and high heat tolerance
Palm oil has no trans fats unlike partially hydrogenated oils which makes it a better choice for food makers. Its high smoke point (about 230°C) also makes it ideal for Indian cooking especially while frying.
Also Read: Metabolic Flexibility: The Key to Better Energy, Fat Loss & Health
Is Palm Oil unhealthy?
The problem is not fresh palm oil but depends on the way it is used. Thakkar explains that when any oil is reused or heated too much turns into harmful compounds.
Generally it often happens at street food stalls or commercial kitchens too. such damaged oils can cause inflammation and heart disease, no matter what oil is used.
Is Palm Oil Healthy To Eat | How much is safe?
Although experts recommend a maximum of two tablespoons of palm oil per day for a healthy adult but this should include a variety of fats such as mustard oil, sunflower oil or peanut oil. Variety in fats is important for a balanced diet.
What do Indian health experts say?
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has not banned palm oil. Instead, it suggests changing the oil according to the season and budget, which benefits health and helps in getting different types of fatty acids and promotes overall health.
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Disclaimer:
Dear Friends, I appreciate you reading this article.
Just to let you know, We wrote this with the assistance of generic information available.
A doctor should be consulted before adopting anything you learn about your health anywhere.
