Month: July 2019

Is Coconut Oil Good For Your Health?

Coconut Oil and your health

Surely you have heard about coconut oil and all its supposed health benefits from being the most heart-healthy cooking oil you can buy to being a weight-loss elixir. You may have even used it while cooking yourself.

But when it comes to oils, there is a lot of misinformation circulating which might even make you skeptical about some of these claims.

Look no further as we will be taking a closer look at coconut oil and all the facts surrounding it, starting with where it comes from.

Where does it come from?

Coconut oil, otherwise known as copra oil, is derived from the kernel or meat of coconuts. It can be extracted by one of two processes, the dry process or the wet process.

The dry process involves removing all the meat from the coconut shell and drying them using fire, sunlight, or a large baking oven known as a kiln. This creates what is known as copra which is then cold-pressed or treated with chemical solvents to extract the oil. These chemical solvents include hexane which increases yield by upwards of 10%. The crude coconut oil is then refined to remove impurities and certain fatty acids.

The wet process, on the other hand, does not involve the drying stage. Coconut milk is extracted from the coconut which creates an emulsion of oil and water. In order to separate the oil from the water, the emulsion can be boiled for a long time until all the water is evaporated. Other ways to separate the oil include using centrifuges, steam distillation, acids, enzymes and so forth.

The oil can further be processed by going through a stage known as hydrogenation. This increases its shelf life and smoke point to make it suitable for cooking purposes.

What is it used for?

Coconut oil is used widely in cooking, especially in baked goods due to its distinct flavor. However, it has found many uses outside of the kitchen. These include:

Hair and skincare

Coconut oil is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids which helps to protect our hair and skin from damage.

When used in hair, coconut oil helps hair to retain its moisture and to prevent frizz. It also protects the hair strands from protein loss which helps to keep them strong and healthy. Coconut oil is also able to combat dry scalp and dandruff by keeping the scalp hydrated. It can even revive damaged hair.

Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, a fatty acid which helps to combat dry skin and can also speed up healing and collagen production. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which are useful in treating skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

Coconut oil is also a great carrier oil. A carrier oil is one that can absorb into the skin readily, and as a result, other herbs and extracts are added into it facilitate their absorption. For this reason, coconut oil acts as a base for many skincare products such as lotions, creams, and soaps.

However, it is comedogenic. This means that if used excessively, it can clog pores and cause acne.

Boosting brain function

Coconut oil contains fatty acids which can help to boost brain function in Alzheimer’s patients and alleviate symptoms of dementia. Ketone, a component of coconut oil, helps to improve memory, specifically in the areas of language and orientation.

Preventing and treating yeast infections

Using coconut oil can provide relief from the symptoms of internal and external yeast infections caused by the overgrowth of a yeast known as Candida Albicans. This is because the capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, caprylic acid, and caproic acid help to kill this yeast gradually.

Killing viruses and bacteria

Coconut oil has microbial effects which can help to prevent illness and infection. It can help to eliminate the viruses which cause influenza, measles, and herpes, along with bacteria which causes urinary tract infections and pneumonia.

Yeast and fungi which cause ringworm, athlete’s foot and diaper rash can also be eliminated by using coconut oil.

Coconut oil can also be used for dental health in oil pulling, as it is able to combat plaque and gingivitis and destroy bacteria. Others claim it can also be used for teeth whitening and decreasing teeth sensitivity but there isn’t enough evidence to support this claim.

Nutritional facts

One tablespoon of coconut oil contains:

• Calories: 120

• Total Fat: 14g

• Saturated Fat: 12g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 0.8g

• Cholesterol: 0mg

• Sodium: 0mg

• Total Carbohydrate: 0g• Protein: 0g

Coconut oil contains no fiber or cholesterol. It does, however, contain plant sterol which can mimic blood cholesterol and can help to block the absorption of cholesterol in the body.

Coconut oil also contains vitamins E and K, and minerals such as calcium, iron, and zinc.

Type of Fat

Coconut oil is 100% fat. Of this 100%, around 90% are saturated fats. Half of the saturated fats are lauric acid, while the remainder consists of myristic acid, palmitic acid, and caprylic acid.

6% of the composition of coconut oil is monounsaturated fats, while 2% are polyunsaturated fats.

Taste and smell

Virgin coconut oil has a slight coconut/ nutty taste and aroma. When refined, the taste and flavor are much milder and more neutral.

Smoke point

Virgin or Extra Virgin Coconut Oil has a smoke point of 350°F (or 176°C). Refined Coconut Oil has a higher smoke point of around 400-450°F(or 205-230°C).

Pros

Coconut oil is indeed a trendy fat/oil. Here are some of its benefits that have been proven to be true:

• It’s great for the skin and hair- Both men and women from many different cultures have used coconut oil in their hair and on their skin for generations because helps to keep both the skin and hair hydrated and acts as a protective barrier.• It tastes great- Coconut oil that hasn’t undergone many stages of processing has a great flavor that makes baked good especially taste great. It can also add extra flavor to stir-fried vegetables and salads.• It has antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties- It can be used topically to fight fungus and bacteria, and enhance the appearance of skin. When ingested, it can also be used to clear up the symptoms of conditions such as urinary tract infections and stomach yeast.

Cons

There is good and bad in everything and coconut oil is no exception. Here are some of its cons:

• It is high in saturated fats- At 12 grams of saturated fat per tablespoon, coconut oil is sitting just at the recommended daily limit of 12g. Additionally, studies conducted have shown that coconut oil raises the LDL or bad cholesterol levels.  • It can be expensive- Coconut oil, especially virgin coconut oil, is much more expensive than other cooking oils (even olive oil). • Studies conducted are inconclusive- While there have been many claims made about coconut oil, not all of them have been backed up by science, so you can’t be entirely sure about its benefits. Plus, the majority of these studies have not been conducted on humans so you should take it with a grain of salt.

What’s the best way to use it

Because it has a relatively low smoke point, Virgin or Extra Virgin Coconut oil can be used to sauté vegetables. It can also be added to sauces and curries to enhance flavor, or be used in baking.

Coconut oil can also be added to your morning coffee for a boost, or into your smoothies for added flavor.

With a higher smoke point, refined coconut oil may be used for deep frying, however, trans fats and free radicals can be created in the process.

Alternatives

A great alternative to coconut oil is olive oil. It is much healthier and has far less saturated fats and more conclusive benefits.

Rice Bran Oil and peanut oil can be used as a substitute when stir-frying. Sunflower Oil, Corn Oil, and Canola oil are the best choices for high heat-cooking.

Things to note

• Health bodies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Heart Association (AHA) all advise against the consumption of coconut oil because it is so high in saturated fat. • Because of its high saturated fat content, coconut oil takes a longer time to oxide and can last for six months at 75°F(or 24°C). Store it in a cool, dry place or in a sealed container in your refrigerator.• Coconut oil is solid at room temperature because it is comprised mainly of saturated fat. It melts at 78°F, so stir well before using if it has liquified.• When using coconut oil as a substitute for butter or shortening, use 25% less than the amount specified in the recipe as coconut oil has a higher percentage of fat solids.

Conclusion- Healthy or Unhealthy?

Coconut is without a doubt one of Earth’s “Superfoods” as its byproducts can be used for many different purposes. However, coconut oil is not worth switching to completely. You can keep it in your cupboard, just don’t go using it in every meal.

Is Soybean Oil Healthy?

soy beans and oil

Soybean oil is one of the most popular cooking oils used in the world. Its usage dates back to 2000 B.C in Ancient China where archaeological evidence suggests that it was grown extensively for personal use and trade. Nowadays, it is used in homes and restaurants because of its low price point and versatility.

But being common does not mean that it is healthy. Could the beloved soybean oil that may very well be in your cupboard at this moment filled with the wrong kind of fat?  .

Is soy bean oil healthy or will it clog up you arteries? But before we answer that question, let’s look at where it comes from, what it can be used for and some nutritional data.

Where does it come from?

Soybean oil is derived from soybean seeds. Unlike other seed oils, these seeds are not cold-pressed in order to extract its oils. This is because it is much harder to extract oil from these seeds. Therefore, heat is applied, along with chemical solvents, bleach, and deodorizers.

Soybeans are heated and pressured then mechanically pressed. However, only a small portion of oil is expelled at this stage. A chemical solvent named hexane is added to the soybean meal to extract the majority of the oil.

The oil is then heated and steamed in order to remove the hexane which can be toxic to humans. It is then bleached to remove impurities and deodorized to remove oxidants. It is then hydrogenated before it is bottled and sold.

Hydrogenation includes the introduction of hydrogen gas to the oil which extends its shelf life, raises its smoke point and also improves its flavor.

What is left is a light-colored or deep yellow oil that may darken after storage.

What is it used for?

Soybean is most popularly used as a cooking oil but its uses don’t stop there. Here are some ways soybean oil is used outside of the kitchen:

Hair and skincare

Soybean oil increases the keratin and amino acids in the hair fibers which help to keep them strong and healthy. This reduces your chances of experiencing hair breakage and balding. It also adds visible shine and instantly improves the appearance of your hair

Using soybean oil topically protects your skin from harmful UV rays and reduces transepidermal water loss by acting as a protective barrier. The linoleic acid, isoflavones, antioxidants, and vitamins found in soybean oil also nourishes the skin, which helps it to look soft and youthful.

Vitamin E in soybean oil can improve the appearance of blemishes and acne scarring. It also promotes the regeneration of new skin cells.

Lowering cholesterol

While many refined oils are filled with saturated fats which cause an increase in your bad cholesterol levels, soybean oil contains more unsaturated fats which help to increase good cholesterol and regulate the bad cholesterol. This helps to prevent hypertension, atherosclerosis and ischemic attacks.

Weight gain

If you are looking for a healthy way to gain weight, soybean oil provides a healthy solution. This is due to the fact that it has high levels of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, along with phytochemicals and vegetable starch which can help to add pounds in a healthier way in comparison to using vegetable oils and butter.

Promoting bone health

Soybean oil contains adequate amounts of phytosterols which help to eliminate free radicals and increase estrogen productivity. Estrogen is responsible for regulating bone metabolism so increasing its productivity will have a positive impact on bone health and will lower the chances of developing bone diseases such as osteoporosis and osteopenia in women.

Improving memory

High levels of saturated fats lead to the formation of amyloid plaques on the brain cells. This causes them to become inflamed and in turn leads to memory loss. Since soybean oil is rich in Vitamin K, and unsaturated fats (such as linolenic and linoleic acid) and low in the bad saturated fats, it helps to boost memory and learning, and can also treat cognitive, neurodegenerative, and cerebrovascular disorders such as Alzheimer’s.

Nutritional facts

One tablespoon of soybean oil contains:

• Calories: 120

• Total Fat: 14g

• Saturated Fat: 2.1g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 3.1g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g

• Trans Fat: 0.1g

• Carbohydrates: 0g

• Protein: 0g

Soybean Oil is also a great source of vitamins including Vitamin E, K, and choline.

Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant which helps to protect body cells, boost nervous system function and fight heart disease. It is also great for the hair and skin.

Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone formation, along with regulating calcium levels in the body.

Choline is a B-vitamin which is necessary for cell membrane structure and the synthesis of the brain chemical, or neurotransmitter, called acetylcholine.

Type of Fat

Soybean oil is high in monounsaturated fat and polyunsaturated fat, but low in saturated fat. It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are able to reduce the risk of developing heart disease and osteoporosis.

The unsaturated fatty acids present in this oil are oleic acid, linoleic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid.

The saturated fatty acids present in soybean oil are stearic acid and palmitic acid.

Taste and smell

Soybean oil has a mild neutral flavor which does not affect the taste of food. It has a light-smell which some people have described as being bean-like.

Smoke point

Soybean oil has a high smoke point of over 450°F (or 234°C).

Pros

Soybean oil is loved because:

• It is low in saturated fatty acids- When used in moderation, it helps to keep cholesterol in check and prevent diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.• It is great for the skin- Vitamin E in soybean oil make it a great moisturizing agent, and it can help to brighten and improve the quality of the skin.• It is inexpensive- Soybean oil is one of the cheapest cooking oils available. You can also find it on the shelf of any supermarket.• It has a neutral flavor- Soybean oil has a mild, neutral flavor which makes it perfect for cooking as it will not change the flavor of your food and won’t clash with other flavors when used to make meals.

Cons

Soybean oil also has some negative effects. These include:

• It can lead to unwanted weight gain- If you are not trying to gain weight, you should avoid this oil because it is high in calories and fat.• It can contribute to diabetes- Oen study declared that a diet high in soybean oil more harmful to your health than a diet high in fructose or coconut oil. This is because it causes glucose intolerance and insulin resistance which can lead to or worsen diabetes.• You can have an allergic reaction- If you are allergic to members of the Fabaceae/ Leguminosae family, you may suffer a severe allergic reaction.• It is a proinflammatory-If you already suffer from an illness which causes inflammation, consuming soybean oil can worsen your symptoms and increase inflammation.• It can contain trans fat- During the hydrogenation process, trans fat may be introduced into the oil. And even though the oil may say “trans-fat-free”, it is important to note that if the amount of trans fat per serving is half a gram or less, manufacturers may state it as 0g on the label.

What’s the best way to use it

Its high smoke point makes it a great choice for deep-frying and stir-frying. It can also be used in baking as an alternative to butter, or as grease for a baking pan.

Soybean oil can even enhance the flavor of salads, sandwich spreads and mayonnaise.

Alternatives

If you have a soy allergy or simply run out of soybean oil when cooking, you can substitute it for canola oil which has a mild taste and a high smoke point.

You could also use sunflower oil, safflower oil, corn oil or peanut oil.

Things to note

Soybean oil was declared a safe oil for women who are pregnant or nursing. Its fatty acids can even benefit women who are in the gestation phase.

Most vegetable oil is made using soybeans. Additionally, the majority of margarine made in the US contain this oil.

Soybeans are grown on a large scale especially here in the US and in order to produce a high-quality, constant supply of soybeans for producing oil and other byproducts, a large percentage of these crops are genetically modified. Though some experts claim that it is completely safe, others argue that they may have some long-term health effects to humans and the environment.

Soybean oil is prone to oxidation at high temperatures because it is so rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids. Despite having a high smoke point, it is not very heat stable for extended periods and has had negative effects in studies that were conducted on animals.

Conclusion- Healthy or Unhealthy?

Soybean oil isn’t the worst cooking oil out there health-wise, but it certainly isn’t the best. Once used in moderation it should be okay, but there are much better alternatives with similar and additional benefits such as olive oil and corn oil.

What is Ghee Used For

What is Ghee Used For

If you like butter on your toast or popcorn, you will you will love Ghee. In fact ​ghee is clarified butter. It becomes clarified butter by removing the milk solids.  It is first heated and then strained so that the fat is a bit less concentrated. This is done to prepare it for high temperature. Without the solids form milk ghee can be heated to much higher temperatures without burning. However, it has quite a bit of fat and calories per tablespoon and is high in saturated fat which is not the healthiest fat. 

So, what is ghee used for? Ghee has been used for thousands of years for its healthy properties. It has been deemed as a healing food in Indian medicine. It is highly regarded as a part of yoga nutritional therapy, where ghee is seen as a nutrient as well as a preservative for food and medicine. In Ayurvedic medicine ghee, along with a few other herbs is believed to give strength to the ojas. This is supposed to be our vital energy cushion that is in the root of our well-being and immunity.

History of Ghee

​Ghee was created due to the need for butter that could have a shelf life and maintain its physical integrity. It simply wasn’t possible to transport butter over long distances. However, you should not consider ghee just another kind of butter. Ghee’s creation happened in northeast India, but that isn’t where it became popular. Its popularity increased once it made its way to Southern India. Butter would often melt by midday in Southern India, due to high temperatures. Ghee solved this issue with its high shelf-stability. It eventually made its way to being a very important part of Indian culture. Indian mythology even tells stories about ghee’s creation.

Nutritional Facts

​Ghee is the highest in fat thus far with 14 g per tablespoon. It is about 62 percent fat. That ends up being 9 g of saturated fat, but no trans-fat. It also contains 35 mg of cholesterol, but no sodium, carbohydrates, or protein. However, it does have more calories than both butter and margarine, with 120 calories per serving. Ghee is also a descent vitamin source, containing vitamins A, E, and K2. It gives you about 11 percent of your daily recommended vitamin intake. Finally, it is a rich source of CLA. This is a metabolism-regulating micronutrient.

  • Amount Per – 1 tbsp (14 g)
  • Calories – 120
  • Total Fat – 14 g
  • ​ Saturated fat – 9 g
  • ​Monosaturated fat – 4 g
  • ​Polyunsaturated fat – 0.5 g
  • Cholesterol – 35 mg
  • Sodium – 0 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates – 0 g
  • Protein – 0 g
  • Vitamin A – 8%
  • Vitamin E – 2%
  • Vitamin K – 1%

Types of Ghee

​If you go through the internet, you will find mixed reviews for ghee. Some act as though it’s god’s gift to earth and others will say that it is bad for you. However, as with most food products if you consume it in moderation then you will be fine. Here are a few different types of ghee and what they can be used for.

Cow Ghee

–    Cow ghee is not merely used for cooking alone. It can also be used as oil for massages. Cow ghee is high in saturated fat but very low in polyunsaturated fat. Therefore, it has a much higher heating point than vegetable oils. Cow ghee stimulates the secretion of stomach acids, which helps with your food digestion. This also means that it helps relieve constipation. It is also rich in antioxidants, especially if the cow is grass-fed. This gives the ghee a large amount of K2 and CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid). CLA has anti-cancer and antioxidant properties that strengthen the immune system and helps with weight loss.

Organic Ghee

–    Unlike mass-produced ghee, organic ghee is cooked in small portions without the use of steam kettles. In addition to other kinds of ghee, organic ghee also boosts energy levels quite a bit. This can be perfect for athletes or anyone that does a large amount of physical work. Organic ghee contains Omega-3 and Omega-9, which are essential fatty acids. It also reduces inflammation and dryness of the skin, it can increase flexibility, and it is great to consume during and after pregnancy. Organic ghee always comes from grass-fed cows.

Cultured (Desi) Ghee

–    Cultured ghee is a bit different than regular ghee because it is made with yogurt, while regular ghee is made from milk. Cultured Ghee is mainly for those who are very dairy sensitive. If this does not apply to you then regular ghee should work just fine. It also has a more butter-like taste than normal ghee, due to the cream in the fermentation process. Cultured ghee is known as desi ghee in India.

Vegetable Ghee

–    Vegetable ghee is a vegetarian alternative to traditional ghee. It is made purely of hardened vegetable oils and has absolutely no milk products. It is great for baking, sautéing, and deep-frying as well as being a great spread for bread and vegetables. It is completely cholesterol-free and has a milder taste than traditional ghee.

Flavored Ghee

–    Flavored ghee basically has the same properties as traditional ghee, except there is added flavor (pretty obvious right). This ghee is best made at home so that you can have control of whatever flavors that you want to be infused. Just follow the steps below on how to make ghee. Add whatever spices and herbs that you desire and then you are good to go.

How to Make Ghee

​Ghee can be pretty expensive to buy in-store, so you may be better off making it at home. An easy way to make it is to get unsalted butter and simmer it over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes. You will know that you are on the right page when a crust forms on top. Scrape off the crust and then pour the remaining liquid into a container. You do not need to refrigerate it, in fact, many people say it is better if you don’t. You can also buy ready to make ghee in most grocery stores.

Ghee vs. Butter

​Ghee has components that promote heart health. It has been shown to decrease cholesterol levels in those who consume it regularly. Ghee is also lower in lactose. As stated before, anyone that struggles with lactose intolerance is better off with ghee. Ghee has almost no lactose found in it. On the other hand, butter is low in trans-fat. Trans-fat is largely associated with heart disease, which obviously is something you want to avoid. Overall, butter is known as a very neutral substance to consume. Small amounts of butter have been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. This still does not mean that you should go crazy with your butter consumption.

What is Ghee Used For

• Cooking – Ghee can be used to cook nearly everything that butter is normally used for. It is great for baking, sautéing, and deep-frying as well as being a great spread for bread and vegetables

.• Skin Care – It reduces inflammation and dryness of the skin. This is because it has essential fatty acids that induce hydration. This can even be used for dark circles under your eyes and chapped lips

.• Lower Blood Pressure – This is due to the presence of Omega-3.• Hair Care – The fatty acids nourishes the scalp, which restores your hairs health.

Is Ghee Healthy

​Overall, it would appear that ghee can be a very versatile and has a place in your kitchen as well as your skin and hair care regime. However, if you eat more than the recommended amount of ghee then you can experience some negative consequences such as weight gain. It is still fat after all.

Is Sunflower Oil Good For You?

 

Sunflower Oil: What’s the scoop?

Sunflowers are a beautiful addition to any home garden, but did you know that they can be a great addition to your kitchen? Not in a vase or anything like that, but in its oil form.

Sunflower oil is said to have many health and cosmetic benefits and works well as a cooking oil. But how true are these claims?

We will be giving you an inside scoop on Sunflower Oil and answer all your burning questions in this article. Let’s start with where it comes from.

Where does it come from?

Sunflower Oil is made using the seeds from the Sunflower plant.  Done mainly in Russia, Argentina, and Ukraine, the oil is extracted using different methods.

One method, the cold-pressing method, involves removing the hulls and breaking the seeds into smaller pieces. They are then run through rollers or rotating cylinders to squeeze the oil out of the seeds. This produces extra virgin Sunflower Oil which may or may not be refined before it hits supermarket shelves. It is golden at this stage and cannot handle high temperatures.

Another method known as warm pressing is similar to the cold-pressing method, however, the seeds are heated slightly before they go through the rollers. This increases the viscosity of the oil in the seeds which makes extraction easier. Although more oil is expelled, the taste is different, sometimes slightly roasted.

Some companies extract Sunflower Oil using a chemical solvent known as hexane. This may be done in the initial stages, or after cold/warm-pressing the seeds. This process expels a larger amount of oil from the seeds. Afterward, the oil that is expelled is boiled so that the hexane is evaporated. It is then processed with lye to remove the chemical taste, then steamed and bleach to remove the lye and to give it a more pleasant taste and color.

This is also known as refined sunflower oil which is more heat stable and can withstand high-temperature cooking. It is much lighter in color and has fewer nutrients than crude Sunflower Oil.

What is it used for?

Sunflower oil is popular in Eastern European cuisine as a salad topper and even a butter. Many snacks have also been made using this oil. But the uses of Sunflower Oil does not just stop there. It has many applications outside of the kitchen. These include:

Hair and skincare

Sunflower Oil is perfect for treating dry scalp and reducing product build-up. It can also stimulate hair growth and preventing balding by increasing blood circulation when massaged into the scalp.

Adding Sunflower Oil to your hair care regimen deeply nourishes and hydrates hair, strengthens follicles, prevents hair breakage and reduces fizziness. It is also not too greasy and won’t weigh hair down, giving you noticeable shine and bounciness.

Sunflower Oil is rich in Vitamin A, C, D, and E which contribute to keeping the skin hydrated and protects it from the harmful UV rays from the sun and pollutants in the air. These vitamins, along with fatty acids, also help to regenerate new skin cells and eliminate acne-causing bacteria.

Omega-6 fatty acids in Sunflower oil also help to combat inflammation and roughness to enhance the skin’s appearance and can also help to prevent premature signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. If you have eczema, using Sunflower Oil both topically and orally can result in near remission of the condition.

Improving oral health

Sunflower Oil is great for oil pulling. It can even reduce and prevent plaque-related gingivitis. Sunflower Oil can also fight against C. Albicans. This is a bacteria which is the most common cause of infection in people.

Lowering cholesterol

Sunflower Oil is on the American Heart Association’s list of best fats as it has less saturated fats and more unsaturated fats. When used to replace other fats and oils in your diet, Sunflower Oil helps to lower the LDL levels (bad cholesterol) and increase the HDL levels (good cholesterol) in your body. This, in turn, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Boosting immune systems and energy levels

The Vitamin E in Sunflower Oil directly helps to boost the immune system because it acts as an antioxidant in the body. This helps to ward off disease and infection which in turn helps to keep you feeling your best physically.

Since Sunflower Oil is not made up primarily of saturated fats, you won’t feel sluggish or tired after consuming it. Instead, its unsaturated fat content will help you to feel energized.

Preventing cancer

While more research is needed to find out the extent of this benefit, Sunflower oil has great potential in cancer prevention. Antioxidants, such as tocopherols, contained within Sunflower Oil helps to eliminate free radicals in the body. Free radicals are dangerous because they are capable of transforming healthy cells into dangerous cancer cells. By reducing the number of free radicals in the body, you are lowering your chances of developing cancer in the future.

Nutritional facts

One tablespoon of Sunflower Oil contains:

• Calories: 120
• Calories from fat: 122
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated fat: 1.8g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Proteins: 0g

Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K are also present in Sunflower Oil.

▪ Vitamin A helps to prevent cataracts, increase collagen production and boost the immune system.
▪ Vitamin B helps to promote a healthy nervous system and aids in digestion.
▪ Vitamin C helps to repair body tissue, maintain bones and teeth and prevent heart disease
▪ Vitamin D is useful for maintaining healthy teeth and bones, absorbing calcium in the body and boosting one’s mood.
▪ Vitamin E helps in keeping the skin and hair healthy, preventing cancer, and preventing cancer.
▪ Vitamin K is important for promoting blood clotting and healing wounds.

Minerals such as selenium are also present in Sunflower Oil. This acts as an antioxidant which helps to boost the body’s immunity against chronic disease and fight inflammation.

Type of Fat

The fat content of Sunflower Oil is dependent on the type of Sunflower Oil that is produced. This is dependent on genetic and the climate in which the sunflowers are grown. However, for all three types, there are more unsaturated fats than saturated fats. These types include:

• High Oleic- 82% oleic acid
• Medium Oleic- 69% oleic acid
• High Linoleic- 21% oleic acid

Taste and smell

Unrefined Sunflower Oil has a mild taste and fatty odor. When refined, it is both tasteless and odorless.

Smoke point

Unrefined Sunflower Oil has a smoke point of 225°F (or 107°C). This makes it unsuitable for high-temperature cooking. However, when refined, the smoke point increases to 450°F (or 232°C)

Pros

Here are some reasons why you should add Sunflower Oil to your cupboard:

• It can withstand high temperatures- This makes it a great addition to your cupboard because you can use it for every style of cooking.
• It is low in saturated fats- This makes Sunflower Oil heart-healthy as it helps to lower cholesterol and prevent excessive weight gain.
• It is inexpensive- Sunflower Oil is relatively inexpensive and also easy to access. This means that adding it to your diet won’t have a significant impact on your budget.

Cons

Adding Sunflower Oil to your cupboard can be a bad idea since:

• It can cause an allergic reaction- Before adding any natural oils to your skincare regimen, it is always advised that you perform a skin patch test approximately 48 hours before. If you are already allergic to plants in the Asteraceae/ Compositae family such as daisies, ragweed, marigold, and chrysanthemums, there is a high chance that you might suffer an allergic reaction to Sunflower Oil.
• It can worsen diabetes- If you have diabetes, you should avoid consuming too much Sunflower Oil as it can increase fasting insulin along with blood sugar. This can lead to atherosclerosis.

What’s the best way to use it

Since refined Sunflower Oil has such a high smoke point, it can be used for frying and stir-frying. Using it won’t affect the flavor too much so it can be used with a variety of foods.

It can also be used in baking as an ingredient, or to grease your pan or grill.

Alternatives

Safflower oil has a similar profile to that of Sunflower Oil and can be a great alternative. You may substitute it for vegetableoil, canola oil, and rapeseed oil for a similar flavor.

Other alternatives which provide the same or similar fatty acid benefits include fish oil and hemp seed oil

Things to note

• The natural shelf life of sunflower oil is one year. To avoid nutrient loss and reduction in its quality, you should store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or in a dark-colored glass.
• If you are pregnant or nursing, you should probably avoid using sunflower. This is because there has not been enough research about whether it is good or bad for women in this condition.

Conclusion- Healthy or Unhealthy?

Incorporating Sunflower Oil into your diet can be a healthy move especially if you suffer from obesity or are at risk of developing chronic disease. However, it is important to bear in mind that excessive amounts of Sunflower Oil in the diet can quickly have adverse effects due to the high concentration of omega-6 fatty acids.

When consuming Sunflower Oil, you should monitor how your body reacts to it. If you feel energized and healthy, then keep on using it. But, if you notice that your cholesterol levels have gone up, and you begin to feel sluggish, then maybe you should reduce consumption or even remove it from your diet.

 

Is Rice Bran Oil Good For You?

We all use cooking oils to make our meals, but using the wrong kind can have some very negative long-term side effects. What makes a cooking oil “good for you” are not only the effect it has on food, flavor and texture-wise. Instead, it is its ability to benefit the body in different ways.

Does Rice Bran oil fall under the category of a cooking oil that is good for you, or is it just another bad, unhealthy oil? Let’s take a look at it.

Where does it come from?

Rice is already a staple food in the diet of Asian cultures, so its use is much more common in those parts of the world. Rice Bran oil has become increasingly popular in the rest of the world over the last few years because it is a seemingly better alternative to other vegetable oils.

The oil is made by extracting the thin outer layer of rice, called the chaff or husk. This is the most nutritious part of rice and contains many nutrients and vitamins. The husks are dried and cold-pressed and the crude rice bran oil collected. Another means of extracting the oil is by using chemical solvent such as hexane.

The rice bran oil can then be sold as-is, or bleached, deodorized and neutralized for cosmetic purposes.

What is it used for?

Despite being popularly used in countries such as Bangladesh, China, and India for deep frying and stir-frying, rice bran oil has many other uses outside of cooking. These include:

Hair and skincare

Rice Bran Oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which are like hair food. These nourish the hair and help to combat frizz and dryness. It also helps to keep hair follicles healthy, promote hair growth and make hair more manageable. Rice Bran has also been praised for preventing early greying for both men and women.

It can also be used as a skin moisturizer and protects it from all the dust particles and pollutants in the air. Rice Bran oil can also be used as a moisturizer to protect against UV, which help to prevent conditions like melanoma, along with delaying aging and wrinkling.

Rice Bran Oil is also a great natural makeup remover and can help to prevent acne. Its Vitamin E content helps to keep skin soft and radiant. Dark circles can also be prevented and treated with this oil as it increases blood circulation in the region and reduces puffiness. Its sterol content can also help to lighten the skin under the eye.

Lowering cholesterol

Both the American Heart Association (AHA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend rice bran oil for improving serum cholesterol levels. It is considered a heart-healthy oil due to its optimal balance of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. It is also naturally trans fat-free. This greatly reduces your chances of developing a heart condition.

Treating symptoms of menopause

Taking rice bran supplements or adding it to your meals can help to prevent or combat menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. This is as a result of its antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory properties.

Preventing cancer

Studies conducted in Asia show that by adding Rice Bran oil to your diet, you can significantly decrease your chances of developing colorectal cancer.

It also has chemopreventive properties which inhibit cancer cell proliferation and reduce inflammation in persons suffering from skin, breast and gastrointestinal cancer.

Preventing allergic reaction

It has been discovered that Rice Bran oil is hypoallergenic in nature. This means that the chances of having an allergic reaction when used in cooking are slim to none and it can also calm preexisting allergic reactions. It may even prevent hypersensitivity to other allergens.

Weight loss

While Rice Bran oil is high in calories, when used in moderation, it can help you to lose weight. When using this oil, a little goes a long way and it retains the nutrients and the flavorof the food being cooked. This makes it a great alternative to other vegetable oils in your diet which results in high caloric intake.

It is also full of antioxidants which can help to boost your metabolic rate. This will help you to shed those pounds faster.

Nutritional facts

In one tablespoon of Rice Bran oil, there are:

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated fat: 2.7g
• Monounsaturated fat: 4.8g
• Polyunsaturated fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Proteins: 0g

While Rice Bran oil is lacking in the mineral department, it will give you some important vitamins.

In just a single tablespoon of Rice Bran oil, you will have already consumed 22% of the recommended Vitamin E daily intake. Vitamin E in the form of tocopherol is an oxidant which boosts immunity and protects cells against oxidative damage.

It also contains 3.3 micrograms of Vitamin K which helps your blood to clot. Evidence also suggests that it contributes to bone health and can even prevent atherosclerosis.

There is also 161 mg of phytosterols which help to lower blood cholesterol.

Type of Fat

Rice Bran oil is said to have one of the perfect balance of fats. It consists of MUFAs (monounsaturated fats) which boosts your HDL levels or “good cholesterol” levels. It also consists of PUFAs (polyunsaturated fats) which help to lower your LDL or “bad cholesterol” levels.

There are saturated fats in Rice Bran oil which may increase your risk of developing heart disease, however, experts are currently reevaluating that idea.

Taste and smell

Rice bran oil has a neutral color and mild taste which makes it ideal for cooking. It has also been said to have a slightly nutty flavor which does not clash with food. When refined, it has a light or odorless smell.

Smoke point

Rice Bran oil has a pretty high smoke point of around 490°F (or 254°C).  Plus, it maintains its nutritive quality even during high heat cooking.

Pros

Incorporating Rice Bran oil into your diet is a good choice for many reasons. Some of these reasons include:

• Foods absorb less oil- The bad thing about using frying as a method of cooking is that the food tends to absorb the oil. Hen cooking with rice bran oil, up to 20% less oil is absorbed. This is because of its low viscosity (thickness).
• Long shelf life- Owing to its antioxidant components, rice bran oil has a much longer shelf life
• It’s great for the skin- Rice Bran oil provides both protection and nourishment for the skin, keeping it hydrated and safe from pollutants in the air.
• It helps to lower cholesterol- Substituting your unhealthy cooking oils for Rice Bran oil can help to greatly decrease your bad cholesterol levels and increase the good cholesterol level. This, in turn, helps to boost your metabolism, promote weight loss and prevent numerous diseases.

Cons

You can’t look at the benefits without acknowledging the drawbacks. Some of these include:

• It is a natural laxative- By increasing the amount of rice bran in your diet, this can cause unpredictable bowel movements and stomach discomfort. You may also experience intestinal gas or constipation.
• It can cause skin irritation- While Rice Bran oil has great benefits when applied topically, it can cause skin irritation if exposed to a rare straw mite.
• Might be difficult to access- Though Rice Bran oil is extremely popular in Asia, it is not the go-to oil here in America so it might not be on your supermarket’s shelves. There is also the option of ordering it online though it might be more expensive than what you would pay for it in India or China.

What’s the best way to use it

Since it has a high smoke point it is suited for high heat cooking methods such as frying, stir-frying, sautéing and searing.

It can also be substituted for other oils in baking, roasting, and grilling.

Alternatives

The best alternative to Rice Bran oil is olive oil because it shares the same health benefits. It also has a similar composition to that of peanut oil.

Other alternatives include Sunflower oil, Canola oil, and Flaxseed oil. In baked goods, butter may be used.

Things to note

• Rice Bran oil should be stored in a cool, dry place. When it is stored properly, it can last for one or two years.
• There has been a lot of research conducted with regards to Rice Bran oil, but not enough. For this reason, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not consume it in large amounts or as a supplement until more information is gathered.
• Rice Bran Oil has the ability to decrease the amount of medicine the body absorbs. So, if you are on medication, ingesting Rice Bran oil may decrease its effectiveness.
• The use of hexane in to extract many Rice Bran oil is a turn off for many because it is flammable, toxic and used in a high-temperature environment. This results in the introduction of undesirables in the oil. This may reduce its health benefits. Your best bet is buying Rice Bran oil that was extracted using the cold-press or any other low/no heat method, although these tend to be a bit more expensive.

Conclusion- Healthy or Unhealthy?

Rice Bran oil does have some pretty useful health and cosmetic benefits. However, you might not want to toss everything out and stock up on Rice Bran oil until there have been more conclusive studies. Rice Bran oil should be used in moderation and can be used as an alternative for other oils in your cupboard now and then.

 

Is Lard Bad For Your Health?

​Lard is a fat derived from pigs. It was the preferred product used in cooking before the rise of vegetable oils. It was originally developed in order to utilize the remainder of the pig that wasn’t used as meat, usually the skin and fat. This was to keep wasted resources to a minimum. They would then use a process called rendering, which is the processing of animal products into more useful materials. It is a slow process that can take several hours and requires at least 130-degrees Fahrenheit. The hotter the temperatures, the quicker the process. This is not a process solely used to make lard. It can be done with any left-over animal products. So, what is lard used for?

What is Lard Used For

Lard is very good for frying eggs, chicken, and ducks. Certain types of lard are very good for baking as well. For example, leaf lard has little of the pork flavor in traditional lard. This makes it ideal for pie crusts and other baked goods. It is also great for sautéing vegetables. However, you should keep in mind that lard has a very low smoke point when compared to vegetable oils. Lard can also be used to make candles in combination with beeswax.

How to Make Lard

Of course, you can buy lard at the grocery store, but grocery store lard is normally very processed with plenty of added chemicals. Grocery store lard is also very high in trans-fats, which is very bad for you. Making it at home is said to be much healthier and it isn’t as difficult as you would think. The hardest part would be getting your hands on the pig fat. Unless of course, you raise your own pigs at home. Homemade lard is a good source of polyunsaturated fat and monounsaturated fat, which are the types of fat that are good for you. However, there is saturated fat located in homemade lard, but not as much as its store-bought counterpart.

​To make lard, basically, you would need to boil the fat until the oil separates from the meat bits. To do this, you are going to need to cut the bits into smaller pieces. A meat grinder can do this very efficiently if you have one. After that, it’s time to boil the pieces. You can do this on a stovetop or in a crockpot. The crockpot is a great way to do it, but it will take a bit longer. Now, you need to add a bit of water and wait for it to boil. After you start to see liquid building up in the pot, you should strain it into a jar and refrigerate it overnight. Make sure you don’t let the pieces cook too long. This will make the lard a more brownish color, which is not what you want. However, if this does happen it will not diminish the quality in any way.

Nutritional Facts

Lard has quite a bit of fat, clocking in at 85 g for every 3 oz. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though. As stated before, it is high in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fat. It has 9 g of polyunsaturated fat and 35 g of monounsaturated fat. It also has 13 mg of potassium and even a small amount of protein.

Amount Per Serving – 3 oz (85 g)

Total Fat – 85 g

​Saturated Fat – 27 g

​Polyunsaturated Fat – 9 g

​Monounsaturated Fat – 35 g

​Trans Fat – 0 g

Cholesterol – 82 mg

Sodium – 23 mg

Potassium – 13 mg

Total Carbohydrate – 0 g

Protein – 0.1 g

Cobalamin – 1%

Types of Lard

Un-Rendered Lard

–    In un-rendered pure pork fat is trimmed off the meat. It is not melted down or filtered. This form of lard has a stronger taste than the other types.

Rendered Lard

–    Pork fat is melted down, filtered, clarified, and refrigerated. The flavor is a bit milder, due to the rendering process. This lard is a little off white and has a very even texture. Most of the time it is softer than processed lard but can become hard when refrigerated as opposed to when it is room temperature.

Processed Lard

–    Processed lard is pure white and is melted down, filtered, and clarified; just like rendered lard. This lard is rendered in a few different ways. It can be steamed in a sealed compartment, which is called Prime Steaming. It can be simmered at low temperatures. It can be kettle-rendered with a steam-jacketed kettle. Finally, it can be dry-rendered, in which the meat is chopped and heated in large vats. Then the lard is bleached and hydrogenated, then comes the preservatives. This is the most common type of lard available.

Leaf Lard

–    Leaf lard is the most premium type of lard on the market. Leaf lard doesn’t have the strong pork taste of most other kinds of lard. This makes it the perfect kind of lard to use for baking pastries. Leaf lard is made with the kidneys inside of the loin.

Lard vs. Butter

The biggest difference between lard and butter is that butter is a dairy product and lard is pig fat. Lard has two times the monounsaturated fat as butter and no trans-fat. This alone makes lard a healthier alternative. Trans-fat contributes to heart disease, while monounsaturated fat has a beneficial effect on your heart. It also has more vitamin D than butter. On the downside, those who don’t eat pork can’t use lard, or rather I wouldn’t recommend it. Certain oils are a healthier alternative to both, but I would say that lard is the winner between the two.

Is Lard Healthy

​Nutrition experts have been going back and forth about lards healthiness for years. Overall, it does have a large quantity of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat. It also has quite a bit of vitamin D, which is great for regulating calcium and maintenance of phosphorus levels. Both of which are valuable in maintaining bone health. Lard does need to be used in moderation, but it is good for you.

Safflower Oil Nutrition Facts

When it comes to choosing an oil for cooking or cosmetic purposes, you will find that there are so many different kinds of seed oils on the market today. With that many options and names you probably haven’t even heard of before, it’s a bit harder to decide on which one to use.

You may have even seen the name Safflower Oil here and there, and have heard many things about it. In this article, we will give you a full run-down of what safflower oil is and if it is ultimately a good addition to your kitchen cupboard.

Where does it come from?

Safflower Oil is made from the seeds of the safflower plant. This plant has been used throughout human history in different parts of the world for various purposes. For example, Ancient Greeks and Egyptians used safflower to make dyes and as medicine. It was and is still being used in Mexican cuisine.

This thistle-like, branchy plant is harvested of its ripe seeds which then go through cold pressing to extract the crude safflower oil. Another means of extraction is by adding chemical solvents. The oil may or may not go through a refining process afterward.

The end result is two different types of colorless oils. One type is high-oleic which is high in monounsaturated fats which makes it perfect for cooking at high temperatures. The other is high-linoleic safflower oil which is high in polyunsaturated fat. It is not recommended for cooking but can be used on salads, or more commonly in making paint.

What is it used for?

Safflower oil has found itself in many kitchens as a healthier replacement to vegetable oils, but that is not its only use. Other uses of safflower oil include:

Hair and Skincare

Safflower oil is rich in vitamins such as oleic acid which helps to improve hair and scalp health by increasing blood circulation. This, in turn, stimulates hair growth and strengthens hair follicles. Using safflower oil also has an immediate visible effect, as it makes hair look shiny and can also make it more manageable.

Linoleic acid in Safflower oil stimulates the regeneration of skin cells which helps to improve the appearance of your skin. It also combines with the sebum in your skin to help unclog pores, prevent blackheads and reduce the buildup of sebum under the skin which causes acne.

Prevents heart disease and diabetes

Safflower oil has a high concentration of omega-6 fatty acids which helps to regulate the cholesterol levels in the body. This, in turn, decreases the risk of heart disease and stroke.  It also helps to regulate blood sugar which helps to manage or prevent the development of diabetes.

This oil can also make the platelets in the blood less sticky which prevents blood clots that can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Promoting weight loss

If you are struggling to lose weight on account of your diet, switching to Safflower oil can be a real gamechanger. The omega-6 fatty acids contained in this oil helps the body to burn fat instead of storing it.

Treating PMS symptoms

If you are one of the many women who suffer from bad period pains and discomfort, adding Safflower oil to your diet may help to treat or relieve some of those symptoms. This is due to the presence of linoleic acid which regulates the prostaglandins in the body which are responsible for the hormone fluctuations and menstrual symptoms.

Unlike hormonal supplements which can have dangerous side effects when used to treat these symptoms, Safflower oil offers a natural alternative which can help to regulate menstrual cycles and decrease the severity of its symptoms.

Boosting the immune system and fighting inflammation

Although Safflower oil can regulate the prostaglandins in the body, it can also form some of these hormones which helps to boost the immune system. Adding it to your diet offers you additional protection from viruses and disease.

The unsaturated fat content of Safflower oil helps to reduce inflammation, especially if you have diabetes or heart disease.

Nutritional facts

In one tablespoon of Safflower oil, you will find:

• Calories: 120• Calories from fat: 122• Total Fat: 14g• Saturated Fat: 1g• Monounsaturated Fat: 10g• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g• Carbohydrates: 0g• Protein: 0g

Safflower oil is 100% fat, 0% carbs and 0% protein.

There is 4.6mg or 23% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin E in one tablespoon of Safflower oil. This vitamin contributes to preventing cancer, protection against diseases such as cataracts and diabetes and even has anti-aging benefits.

Safflower oil also contains Vitamin K, or phylloquinone, which protects against conditions such as varicose veins, arterial calcification, osteoporosis,  certain cancers such as lung, prostate and liver cancer along with some brain conditions.

Safflower oil is lacking in minerals.

Type of Fat

Safflower oil consists of three different types of fats namely:

• Saturated fat- The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that choose oils with less than 4g of saturated fat per tablespoon. This fits the bill as Safflower oil contains only 1g of saturated fat per tablespoon.• Polyunsaturated fat: This type of fat is considered to be “good” fat and has a more positive effect on the cardiovascular system than saturated fats.• Monounsaturated fat: Monounsaturated fat, or MUFAs, are also considered to be “good” fat. It helps to increase your HDL, or “good” cholesterol level, and by default, lower LDL, or “bad” cholesterol levels.

Taste and smell

Safflower oil is loved for its mild or neutral taste and smell. It can also be described as odorless and flavorless once refined.

Smoke point

Safflower oil has a high smoke point of between 225°F to over 500°F depending on whether it is refined, semi-refined or unrefined. This is much higher than that of corn oil, sesame oil, canola oil, and olive oil. This makes it perfect for high heat cooking.

Pros

Using Safflower oil definitely has its benefits. Here are the most obvious ones:

• It is a great source of unsaturated fatty acids- Safflower oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids which have several health benefits. It is also low in saturated fats which experts claim are unhealthy and can cause heart disease and obesity.• It has a neutral flavor- Since it has a neutral flavor, this makes it very versatile. It can be used for pan-frying, baking, deep-frying and so on without affecting the true flavor of food.• It is easy to integrate into cooking- If you want to use it as a part of your diet for weight loss, you will be glad to know that it is easy to switch to. This is because it has a mild flavor that anyone can enjoy.• It’s great for the skin- Whether you apply it topically or ingest it, Safflower oil can be used to restore skin health and delay signs of aging. It can be used to treat anything from sunburns of eczema.

Cons

When using Safflower oil, there are also some things that you should bear in mind. Here are a few:

• It can cause short-term digestive issues- Taking Safflower oil in a capsule form may cause upset stomach, cramps, and diarrhea for some users. It may even cause nausea and fatigue.• Low in nutrients and vitamins- Although it can be used to regulate cholesterol levels, Safflower oil is lacking in the nutrients and vitamins department.

What’s the best way to use it

Safflower oil’s high smoke point means that it can be used for deep-frying and stir-frying without burning. It can also be used a salad dressing base since it can be stored in the refrigerator without solidifying.

Others use it in baking and grilling to prevent foods from sticking without altering the flavor.

Alternatives

Safflower oil shares a similar profile to that of Sunflower oil.

For deep frying, you can use corn oil or any other vegetable oil. Wheat-germ oil makes a great salad topper.

Things to note

• If you have issues with blood clotting, you can use safflower oil as it is a natural blood thinner. However, if you are already prescribed a blood thinner or are due for surgery, it is best to avoid it.• If you have a nut allergy and are unsure about how your body will respond to Safflower oil, it is better to consult your doctor beforehand as some persons with nut allergies are also allergic to seeds.• If you are allergic to ragweed (and its relatives), it is best to avoid safflower oil as they are all a part of the same botanical family.• Before using Safflower oil topically, it is advised that you perform a patch test. All you have to do is rub a drop of the oil into an area of your skin and wait for at least 48 hours. If there is no allergic reaction, then you can go ahead and use it on your face or body.• Safflower oil should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It may also be stored in your fridge and it won’t turn cloudy like olive oil.

Conclusion- Healthy or Unhealthy?

Though it is not the superfood many sellers advertise it to be, it has been given the thumbs up by the American Health Association as a healthy cooking oil cooking. It is also very versatile and can be used in many different forms of cooking.

However, at the end of the day, you should still bear in mind that Safflower oil is still a fat and can become unhealthy once it is used excessively.

Uses For Beef Tallow That May Surprise You

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When it comes to eating meat, the more health-conscious among us go for the leaner cuts and toss or avoid the fattier parts, right? With beef, it is no different.

But maybe beef tallow has been getting a bad rap over the years. Maybe it is something we should pay more attention to.

Learn more about how beef tallow can become a part of your everyday life and so much more in this article.

Where does it come from?

Historically, beef tallow was a traditional cooking fat used in households across the world. However, with the introduction of vegetable shortening as a potentially healthier option, beef tallow was set aside and its use declined rapidly in the 20th century.

The word tallow refers to the rendered fat of an animal. Beef tallow is therefore rendered fat from a cow. The fat that is rendered is called suet, which is the hard, white fatty layer that surrounds organs such as the loin and kidneys.

Beef Tallow is similar in appearance to lard (pork fat) and is shaped like a big stick of butter. It is solid at room temperature and melts at about 100-118°F (or 38-48°C). It also looks like a coconut oil and butter hybrid; however, it has a dry, waxy texture.

Beef tallow has been making quite the comeback this past decade with the movement towards traditional foods and diets. More and more persons have become interested in this fat, including you.

Uses For Beef Tallow

Beef tallow has been used mainly for cooking. In fact, big-name fast-food restaurants such as McDonald’s, Burger King, Popeye’s and Wendy’s all used to use this fat to cook their French fries and onion rings. But beef tallow’s uses are not limited to just cooking. Here are some other uses of beef tallow that may even surprise you:

Skincare

Animal fat on your skin, sounds crazy right? It actually isn’t because beef tallow is full of CLAs (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can cure blisters and cracked skin from tight shoes, prevent and treat diaper rash in babies and soothe skin irritation caused by chickenpox or poison ivy.

Beef tallow also matches the fatty acid profile of the cells in our skin which make it perfect for keeping them hydrated. Balms, moisturizers and makeup removers have also been made using beef tallow.

Making soaps

Many of the skincare products that we use, including soaps, contain chemicals and harsh fragrances which gets absorbed into our bloodstream. They can also dehydrate the skin, leaving it dry and stripped of its natural oils. Tallow was also used in many high-end shaving soaps back in the day.

Beef Tallow soap can also be used as a laundry detergent which is much gentler on clothes than many of the top brands.

Candle making

Tallow is a cheap alternative to wax candles that have been used by people all over the world to provide light and heating to their homes. Even the poorest of society used what was known as a tallow drip, which consisted of a lit strip of cloth in a saucer of tallow grease.

Making banknotes

Not sure if you were aware, but there was a huge uproar created by the United Kingdom’s Vegan, Sikh, Hindu, Jewish and Muslim community when it was discovered that their banknotes contained tallow. Tallow is used to make the banknotes waterproof, durable and anti-static.

It was also revealed that the currencies of at least 23 other countries, including Australia, Malaysia, and Singapore, contained tallow in their polymers.

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Nutritional facts

In 100 grams of pure beef tallow, you will find:

▪ Calories: 115
▪ Total Fat: 12.8g
▪ Saturated Fat: 6.4g
▪ Monounsaturated Fat: 5.4g
▪ Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.51g
▪ Cholesterol: 14mg
▪ Sodium: 0g
▪ Carbohydrates: 0g
▪ Protein: 0g
▪ Omega-3: 0.08g
▪ Omega-6: 0.4g

NB: Because beef tallow is a pure source of fat, it has no protein or carbohydrates.

Beef tallow contains Vitamins D and E, and trace amounts of a mineral known as selenium. (Selenium is known for its ability to boost immunity and reduce inflammation). Cows raised on pasture will generally contain more vitamins.

Type of Fat

Beef tallow is, of course, animal fat. It is made up of 50% saturated fat, 42% monounsaturated fat and 4% polyunsaturated fat.

Taste and smell

Once the tallow is rendered, it will have a mild animal-smell, but it is not overpowering

Beef tallow is loved for adding a rich flavor to foods. It has an umami taste.

Smoke point

Beef tallow is one of the most heat-stable cooking fats around. It has a high smoke point of a little over 400°F (or 250°C).

In fact, it has such good oxidative stability that it is sometimes added to soybean oil to improve its stability. This comes from its low polyunsaturated fat content. Polyunsaturated fat consists of multiple double bonds which make fatty acids more susceptible to oxidation. Since it has less, it can take it the heat.

Can Beef Tallow Increase Your LDL?

Pros

Using beef tallow for whatever purpose has many benefits. For example:

• It is relatively affordable- The affordability of beef tallow as fat comes from the fact that it is a sustainable fat. This is because it is already a byproduct of cattle rearing which means that there is no need for extra resources or equipment to produce it. And, unlike palm oil, corn, and soybean oil, there is less strain on the environment since no additional land has to be cleared, no more animals have to lose their natural habitat, no more land gets degraded by pesticides and poor farming practices and no more water gets polluted. While prices vary depending on location, beef tallow can be cheaper than many other cooking oils.
• It is versatile- Beef tallow has more than one application than just in the kitchen. When you purchase this fat, you can use it to cleanse your clothes or take care of your skin. You also have the option of using it to make candles or as grease.
• It is rich in CLAs- This is a kind of naturally occurring trans fat which, according to some studies, have proven to help burn fat. Other shows that it has cancer-preventing properties.
• It’s great for your skin- Beef tallow was probably used a body butter by your ancestors. When applied topically, it is easily absorbed into the skin and helps to nourish and repair.
• It helps to absorb other vitamins- Vitamins A, D, E and K need fat to be absorbed in the body which in turn boost the immune system.

Cons

Using beef tallow also has some disadvantages. Some of these include:

• It is high in saturated fat- Consuming a lot of beef tallow over time can lead to an increase in LDL cholesterol levels which can, in turn, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Smell- In its pure form, it can have a slightly meat-smell which some persons may find off-putting when it is being used for cosmetic purposes.

What’s the best way to use it?

Though frying and deep frying are not healthy ways to cook food, beef tallow is amazing as a frying oil due to its high smoke point and the ability to add extra flavor to food. It can also be used to sauté, sear or stir fry and can give vegetables and meat an appetizing smell and yummy taste.

When baking meat, it can give it additional flavor. Beef tallow can also make pie crusts extra flaky, and can even be used to bake burger buns that are soft, yet sturdy.

Alternatives

If you run out of beef tallow, the best alternative is probably lard, which comes from pigs. Not a pork fan? You can always just use butter or ghee.

Depending on what you’re making, you can use shortening, rapeseed oil or vegetable oil.

Things to note

• Beef tallow is non-perishable and can be stored at room temperature for quite some time on your kitchen counter. It can last years in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration should be a last resort.
• It should be stored away from sunlight in colored or opaque containers to limit expose. This can decrease its shelf life.
• Beef tallow is reusable. After frying, you can strain it and wait for it too cool and reharden.
• Stored tallow should not be stuck with your fingers or dirty utensils as this can introduce microbes and bacteria which will grow and cause it to spoil.
• If the smell is off-putting, you have the option of adding essential oils or herbs.
• The source of the beef your tallow comes from is an important consideration. Some farmers use antibiotics and growth hormones which ends up in the cow’s fat. Aim for 100% grass-fed cows from trusted butchers.

Conclusion- Healthy or Unhealthy?

Tallow can be used for cooking once it is used in reasonable amounts. While it can be used every day, it is best to go with healthier options or mix it up a little. So, if you use beef tallow to make your french fries and hamburger today, maybe tomorrow you can use olive oil to stir fry those veggies.


Is Avocado Oil Good For You?

Everything we know about Avocado Seed Oil

When looking for alternatives to the popular, yet unhealthy vegetable and canola oils, avocado seed oil has probably crossed your radar. But what is it about avocado seed oil that is making it more and more popular among home users, and how can it benefit you?

All this and more will be discussed in this breakdown of everything we know about avocado seed oil. Let’s get started!

Where does it come from?

Avocado seed oil has been a part of Mexican traditional medicine for years and is used to treat anything from diarrhea to asthma, to skin problems and for greasing hair.

First things first is that avocado seed oil comes from avocados. Dead giveaway, right? But don’t think you can make this oil in the same way you do your grandma’s world-famous guacamole.

You can make avocado seed oil at home by removing the skin and pulp away from the seed/pit and allowing it to dry. Then, using a mallet, crush the pit into smaller pieces and add them to the cold-press device of your choice to extract your oil.

Let the oil sit for a few days and scoop off any contaminants that rise to the top. You may also strain it to remove additional impurities. You can also heat the oil at 100°C to remove bacteria and excess oils, but we will take a look at that later.

On an industrial level, the seeds are chopped, then heated too 100-110°C in large containers while being stirred simultaneously. Once roasted, the seeds are pressed until they reach the desired viscosity and density, and are further refined or purified before they get to shelves.

The cold-press method takes longer, but it is the healthiest extraction method when it comes to any seed oil. If you don’t see the words cold-pressed on the bottle or container, chances are the latter method was used, and it may even contain some solvents and chemicals used to manufacture and preserve the oil.

Is it the same thing as avocado oil?

The short answer to this question is no. While they come from the same fruit, they are made in different ways and have different properties.

Unlike avocado seed oil which is made from the seed/pit of the avocado fruit, what we call “avocado oil” is made from the pulp or the fleshy green part that we use to make guac. Instead of being cold-pressed like the seed, the flesh/skin can be made into oil in three different ways:

  1. It can be sliced, pureed then cooked on a stovetop until the oils start to rise to the top, at which point it is strained through cheesecloth.
  2. The skin can be pressed using an orange press to extract the oil, which is then strained.
  3. The pump can be pureed and placed on a baking tray and put into an oven at 50°C for four or five hours until it is dried, then squeeze in some cheesecloth to extract the oil

These are at-home methods for making avocado oil. On an industrial scale, extraction methods vary and they typically contain more than just avocado oil.

Avocado oil is more widely used than avocado seed oil, in fact, not many people are aware that the seed is very useful and just end up throwing it away. But since we have distinguished between the two, it is time to delve deeper into avocado seed oil and what we actually know about it.

What is it used for?

Avocado seed oil is used for so many purposes, that you might even be surprised at its versatility.

Aside from acting as a carrier oil for other flavors and increasing the absorption rate of vitamins and nutrient when eaten, some common uses of avocado seed oil include:

Treating symptoms of arthritis, gout, and rheumatism

Avocado seed oil has anti-inflammatory properties. This is due to high levels of catechins and procyanidins which can reduce joint pain, aches, and soreness, along with swelling and loss of joint function. To reap this benefit, the oil is massaged into the skin by itself or added to other oils or creams.

Hair and skincare

Originally extracted for cosmetic purposes, avocado seed oil contains a number of antioxidants which help to rebuild collagen which in turn helps to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. Avocado seed oil is also a great natural alternative to sunscreen, especially if you are allergic to some of the ingredients found in store-bought sunscreen.

It can also be used to speed up the rate at which wounds heal and to treat stretch marks. If you suffer from psoriasis or eczema then you might want to check it out.

Shampoos containing avocado seed oil, or the raw oil itself is useful for thickening but also softening the hair, along with preventing graying and breakage. It also improves scalp health and can combat dry scalp or dandruff.

Heart health

The antioxidants within avocado seed oil promote good heart health by lowering cholesterol and regulating blood pressure thereby preventing cardiovascular disease and stroke

Cancer prevention

The phenolic compounds, flavanol, and polyphenols present in avocado seed oil play a very important role in preventing cancer and tumor growth. They may also help to relieve some of the symptoms experienced by cancer patients.

Nutritional facts

Avocado seed oil is known to contain minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc. Fatty acids, starch, and dietary fiber are also present.

Its antinational components include oxalate, phytate, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and cyanogenic glycoside.

Type of Fat

Avocado seed oil is similar to olive oil, in that they both share a monounsaturated fat profile. This is “good” fat.

Avocado Oil Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 1 tablespoon
Per Serving % Daily Value*
Calories 124  
Calories from Fat 124  
Total Fat 14g 21%
Saturated Fat 1.6g 1%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g  
Monounsaturated Fat 10g  
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 1mg 0%
Potassium 0mg 0%
Carbohydrates 0g 0%
Dietary Fiber 0g 0%
Sugars 0g  
Protein 0g  
Vitamin A 0% · Vitamin C 0%
Calcium 0% · Iron 0%
*Based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Taste and smell

The vibrant orange-colored avocado oil has a strong, fatty odor.

Its taste has been described as a lingering avocado-like, but almost grassy-butter/mushroom flavor.

Smoke point

Both refined and unrefined avocado seed oil has a high smoke point of 249°C – 271°C due to its low acidity. This makes it suitable for cooking.

Pros

There are many advantages to using avocado seed oil over many other popular types of oils. Some of these benefits include:

  • It is full of antioxidants- 70% of the antioxidants found in avocados are located within the pit/seed. Its antioxidant content is also higher than most fruits.
  • High smoke point- Unlike other edible oils which have a low smoke point, the smoke point for avocado seed oil is much higher which allows it to actually be used in cooking, rather than just being a topper for some foods.
  • It is promising for the treatment of tumors – Numerous studies have been conducted on rats and mice as the seeds tend to produce antimicrobial and antitumor effects.
  • High fiber content- Because avocado seeds, and by default avocado seed oil, has such a high fiber content, it helps to regulate and even lower cholesterol levels. This is great for diabetics or if you have a heart condition.

Cons

We can’t look at the benefits of using avocado seed oil without looking at the drawbacks. Here are a few:

  • Allergic reaction- if you have sensitive skin then you may suffer allergic reactions when avocado seed oil is used topically.
  • Toxic in high does- While studies were being conducted on rats and mice, it was discovered that high doses can be toxic. The avocado seed actually contains a cyanide called amygdalin that can cause stomach aches if eaten in large quantities.
  • Limited research- Despite being a part of traditional Mexican medicine for years, there still has not been enough research conducted so you can’t really be a 100% sure that this is the miracle oil that people have been talking about.

What’s the best way to use it

Since it has a high smoke point, avocado seed oil is perfect for frying, sautéing, searing, stir-frying, baking, roasting and baking.

However, since avocado seed oil hasn’t been given the good-to-go signal, it is probably best that you use it in small quantities, as a topper and not necessarily for deep frying.

Alternatives

A great alternative to avocado seed oil is to grate the seed itself and add it to another oil, such as olive oil to reap its benefits. You can also add it to smoothies and curries for a little oomph.

Things to note

  • It is important to note that while the flesh and even the skin of the avocado have been given the green light for consumption, some scientists will argue that there has not been enough research to give the avocado seed the go-ahead for the public. With that being said, the research has been very promising so far and the benefits are irrefutable.
  • If you are allergic to latex, you have an increased chance of being allergic to avocado seed oil. Doing a patch test before using it topically is advised, as you may risk breaking out into hives and rashes, skin itching and reddening and even burning.
  • Women who are nursing or are pregnant should probably opt out of using avocado seed oil.

Conclusion- Healthy or Unhealthy?

Sure, avocado seed oil has its benefits, but don’t just go adding it to every single thing you can get your hands on. Maybe once in a while and in small amounts until everything is conclusive.

 

 

Hempseed Oil Health Benefits You Will Appreciate

There are so many sellers online telling you to buy this and to buy that and before you know it, you end up with so much useless stuff. Now, here comes hemp seed oil sellers boasting about all the health and cosmetic benefits. So, what’s the catch, and is hemp seed oil a good buy?

If you are like many of us, you will need more convincing, and that’s just fine. You should be well informed before you make a purchase. So, in this article, we will take a look at hemp seed oil from source to composition, to benefits and even drawbacks. You will even learn how it can be used in food. So let’s begin.

Where does it come from?

Hemp seed oil actually comes from the Cannabis Sativa plant, but it is not the kind of oil that will get you high. Hemp seed oil is made using the seeds of the hemp plant which contain less than 0.3% of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which is responsible for producing the mind-altering effects associated with the plant. It is also important to note that hemp seed oil is also not the same as CBD oil. To make CBD, the flowers, stalks, and leaves of the plant are used which contain higher concentrations of CBD.

To make the oil, the seeds undergo the cold-pressing process until the oil is expelled. Other methods of extraction involve using a gas stove, ranges, organic ethanol, and even chemical solvents

Unrefined, the hemp seed oil has a dark to clear light green color. When it is refined for use in cosmetics, the oil is clear and colorless.

What is it used for?

Hemp seed oil is used for many purposes in different parts of the world. Some of these uses include:

Hair and skincare

You can use hemp seed oil on your face as a moisturizer because its fatty acid content helps to reduce skin dryness. It is also an ingredient in many cosmetic products such as soaps and lotions because its natural antioxidants help to nourish the top layer of the skin and can penetrate to deeper layers to prevent acne and address skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema.

Adding hemp seed oil to your conditioner can help to make hair less dry and brittle. Its fatty acids help to moisturize the hair and scalp, and also soften and condition the hair. Massaging hemp seed oil into your scalp can also help to increase blood circulation and promote hair growth.

Fighting inflammation

If you have arthritis, multiple sclerosis or fibromyalgia, then hemp seed oil may be perfect for fighting your inflammation. Its omega-6 content helps to build the body’s immunity and fight inflammation by promoting the production of a hormone name prostaglandins which is responsible for controlling inflammation.

Promoting heart health

Hemp seed oil contains an optimal 3:1 ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Adding it to your diet can, therefore, help to lower your cholesterol levels and decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies have also shown that consuming hemp seed oil reduces cholesterol absorption in the body to enhance cardiovascular health.

If you are diabetic, hemp seed oil can be a great supplement to help to boost or regulate your fatty acids intake.

Improving brain health

Even though the levels of THC and CBD in hemp seeds are low, they contain other cannabinoids that help to improve brain function. If you or anyone you know suffer from any form of anxiety or PMS, hemp seed oil can be used for its anti-depressant effects. Simply inhaling it can even help to improve the mood.

The fatty acids in hemp seed oil are also great for memory retention and preventing age-related cognitive decline. Studies have even come out to show that hemp seed oil can reverse a severe form of brain cancer known as glioblastoma multiform by inhibiting its growth.

Easing digestion

If you are like millions of Americans suffering from digestive issues, you will be glad to know that consuming even a little hemp seed oil can help to relieve constipation and ease bowel movements. This is as a result of the fiber content of the oil, along with omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids which regulate the secretion of digestive juices and hormones.

Nutritional details

In a single tablespoon of hemp seed oil, there are approximately 130 calories.

Hemp seed oil contains a large number of antioxidants such as vitamin E and carotene which help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the human body. It also contains minerals such as zinc, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sulfur, and iron. Hemp seed oil is also a good source of chlorophyll which actually gives it its light green color.

The essentially fatty acids that are needed by humans are not produced within the body. However, hemp seed oil contains an impressive ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Type of Fat

The majority of hemp seed oil, approximately 80% is polyunsaturated fatty acids, or “good fat”. Only about 11% is saturated fatty acids or “bad fat”.

It has been given titles such as “the most unsaturated oil” and “nature’s most perfectly balanced oil” because of its low saturated oil content and the optimal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

Taste and smell

Hemp seed oil that is refined has little to no odor. The unrefined hemp seed oil has a nutty, earthy smell.

Refined hemp seed oil is basically flavorless. Darker hemp seed oils will have a nuttier, grassier flavor.

Smoke point

Hemp seed oil has a smoke point of around 330°C. Beyond that, it will start to oxidize and produce unhealthy trans-fats.

Pros

If you have been approached with hemp seed oil before, then you may have already heard about its benefits. If not, here a few:

  • It improves the condition of the hair and skin- Hemp seed oil is effective in treating skin disorders such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and lichen planus. It can also moisturize the hair and skin, to make them stronger and healthier.
  • It can treat and prevent chronic illness- Hemp seed oil is known for decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol which can help to prevent heart disease and diabetes. It is also helpful for lung, breast, and brain cancer patients who prefer a natural remedy for treating their cancer.
  • Natural pain relief- If you have arthritis, joint or muscle pain, you stand to benefit from the anti-inflammatory component of hemp seed oil when taken orally or applied topically.
  • Easy to access- Since hemp seed oil is legal in all 50 states, you can easily grab a bottle off a shelf or order one online.

Cons

The benefits all sound great, but what about the drawbacks? What disadvantages are there to using hemp seed oil? Here are a few:

  • Diarrhea and stomach cramps- While great for constipation and other digestive issues, too much hemp seed oil in your diet can cause cramps from the softened stool, and diarrhea.
  • THC exposure- While there are only small amounts of THC in the hemp seed itself, if the hemp seed oil is produced within a facility where other cannabis products are made, there is a slight chance that it might get mixed in with your oil. If you are going to do a drug test, it might be best you avoid consuming it for a few days.

What’s the best way to use it

Because of its low smoke point, you shouldn’t use hemp seed oil for high-heat cooking such as frying, stir-frying, sautéing or searing. You should probably avoid using heat altogether. However, you can use it as a topper to add to salads, or as a marinade for extra flavor.

Hemp seed oil can also be added to smoothies, soups, spreads, and dips to enhance their flavor and nutritional value.

Alternatives

Since refined hemp seed oil is basically flavorless, you can substitute it with oils such as olive oil and sunflower oil.

For the nutty flavor, you can go for peanut or walnut oil.

Things to note

  • Depending on how you wish to use it, you can purchase hemp seed oil in its pure form or in the form of soft-gel capsules.
  • The recommended dosage of hemp seed oil is 1-2 tablespoons a day.
  • Before consuming hemp seed oil, you should consult your doctors especially if you are taking other medications.
  • While hemp seed oil can be used in its pure form, it is best to do a patch test before applying it all over the skin to see how it reacts. You may also dilute it with other oils or add it to your other beauty products to receive its benefits.
  • Pay keen attention to how the hemp seed oil is extracted before you purchase it. If there is no clear indication that it was made using the cold-press method or with organic ethanol, you can assume that its extraction involved heat and chemicals.

Conclusion- Healthy or Unhealthy?

After an analysis of all the data there is on hemp seed oils, it is safe to say that the benefits of hemp seed oil far outweigh the risks. It is now up to you to consume it within moderation, and take note of the information that was presented here to make it a healthy addition to your life.