Oils in our diet have traditionally been linked to poor health. Foods prepared with large amounts of oil were once thought to be downright bad for us. This perception is gradually changing. It is becoming increasingly clear that certain types of oils can improve our health. In fact, just like vitamins, our bodies require certain fats to function properly. Sunflower oil contains these fats.
There are 3 main types of sunflower oils. Linoleic oil is the type most commonly found at your local grocery store. It is high in essential fatty acids and is rich in vitamin E. High oleic oil contains high levels of monounsaturated acids. It is less commonly used in the home, but is well suited for use in bakeries, restaurants, and cosmetics. Finally, NuSun is the latest addition to the lineup. It was originally designed to reduce the amount of saturated fat in sunflower oil. Today, it is fast becoming the most popular choice due to its pleasant taste, lack of trans fat, and health benefits.
Sunflower oil in cosmetic products
Sunflower oil has been used as an ingredient in cosmetic products for years. One of its main benefits as a skincare solution is its ability to help skin retain moisture. Millions of people apply it directly to the skin or use cosmetic products that contain sunflower oil to prevent excess dryness. Of the 3 types, only high oleic acid oil can be used effectively in cosmetic formulations found on store shelves. Linoleic oil and NuSun lack the shelf life needed to be used in most skin care products.
Improves the cardiovascular system
It is becoming increasingly clear that sunflower oil is healthy for our cardiovascular system. It contains large amounts of vitamin E and high levels of essential fatty acids (or polyunsaturated fats) that our bodies need. These essential fatty acids cannot be produced within our bodies. They must be derived from our diet. The reason we need these polyunsaturated fats is because they tend to lower our cholesterol levels. By lowering our cholesterol, we decrease the chance of developing heart disease.
In terms of saturated fat content, sunflower oil is almost as low as canola oil. For comparison, NuSun oil is about 9% saturated fat, while butter oil is 64% saturated fat. In response to growing concerns about the health of food products, many food manufacturers have begun replacing ingredients high in trans fat with sunflower oil.
Sunflower Oil in Restaurants
Restaurants have been using sunflower oil in their food preparation more than ever. The oil can be used at extremely high temperatures, making it very suitable for cooking and frying. Additionally, many restaurants have begun to use sunflower oil as a selling point. Consumers are becoming more aware of how foods high in saturated fat affect their long-term health. Restaurants have responded by promoting the lower levels of trans fats and the high content of essential fatty acids found in sunflower oil. Also, foods made with sunflower oil can stay fresh for longer periods.
a healthy oil
Sunflower oil offers a variety of benefits. It can be used as an emollient to help the skin retain moisture, preventing excessive dryness. It can replace heavy oils in cooking applications to make tasty and healthy food. It can even be consumed as a supplement to provide our body with essential fatty acids that can lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease. Although once overlooked, sunflower oil has proven to be versatile and beneficial in a number of ways.
