Best Cooking Oils: Which Oil Is Healthy For Cooking

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Which Oil Is Healthy For Cooking

Yet another piece of research has confirmed the benefits of omega 3 oils. As well as lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke, increasing concentration and helping those suffering from inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, they may also help prevent Alzheimer's, according to a new American study.
However not all omegas appear to be quite as good for you, regarding dementia.The researchers also found 'overdosing' on oils rich in omega 6, such as sunflower oil - (omega 6 fats are known to be helpful for keeping blood cholesterol levels down) - could have the reverse effect, possibly doubling the risk of developing dementia.Omega 3 and 6 belong to the polyunsaturated group of fats, with the other two main types being the monounsaturated and saturated families.Vegetable oils all contain varying amounts of these types of fat but are generally dominated by one. For example, rapeseed is predominantly a monounsaturated fat; sunflower oil is mainly a polyunsaturated fat and palm oil is largely saturated fat.
Any type of oil or fat will help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K), and make sex hormones. But moderating intake of fat in general, and some types in particular, is important for health.
When saturated fats are eaten to excess, they can raise blood cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. Moderate amounts of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are beneficial as they lower blood cholesterol.Polyunsaturated fats help cell membranes remain flexible and porous, allowing nutrients to enter and waste products to leave. But the amount and balance of polyunsaturated fats we eat is important, too.