Cooking oils are an essential ingredient in all kitchens worldwide. From frying to sautéing and adding that delicious tadka to the dal, to making vinaigrettes for salad dressings, oil is a must-have to enhance our food-eating experience. Now that we have a million options of oils to choose from when we head to the supermarket; it can get quite overwhelming to read the packaging, research, and then choose your cooking oil. So, you’ll most likely just pick the brand you’re familiar with and move on. 

However, knowing the nutritional content in your oil can make all the difference between a heart-healthy meal and a high-cholesterol meal. If you use refined oil for cooking at home or are planning on switching from unrefined oil to refined ones, understanding if refined edible oil is good for you is a smart decision.  So, without much ado, let’s delve into the journey of discovering what refined oil is and the health benefits you can achieve by using it.

What is Refined Oil?

Refined vegetable oil is what you obtain after refining and removing the harmful impurities in crude oil and achieving purified oil. 

The ingredients of the refined oil may vary according to the oil you pick. In Saffola, the main components are rice bran oil and safflower oil for Saffola Total, and rice bran and sunflower seed oil in Saffola Gold.

Refined oil has many advantages over non-refined oils as it is more sanitary and more suitable for your daily edible uses. The oil is non-deteriorate, easy to store and produces less lamp black when cooking as well.

What are the ingredients in refined cooking oil?

The primary ingredient in refined oil is crude oil, which is extracted from various plant sources, such as soybeans, olives, sunflowers, rice bran, peanuts, and rapeseed. Crude oil is a mixture of triglycerides, which are made up of three fatty acids on a glycerol backbone. The specific ingredients used for refining edible oil differ based on the type of oil that is being refined. However, the most popularly used ingredients are caustic acid, citric acid, phosphoric acid and activated carbon. They are used as they help remove impurities from the oil and neutralise any acids present in the oil.

Is refined oil actually good for health?

There is quite a bit of a conundrum regarding the health benefits of refined oils. It is often criticised for the low levels of nutrients it retains after going through the refinement process. Although, over the years due to technological advancement the refining process has seen a notable evolution. Refined oils have a higher smoke point compared to other oils, making them ideal for frying food. The benefit of a higher smoke point is that while cooking at high temperatures the oil does not break down and release harmful toxins. As opposed to, unrefined oils which have a low smoke point and are not the best for frying food. 

Benefits of Refined Oil 

Let’s take a look at the health benefits of refined cooking oil in more detail: 

1. Nutritional Benefits of Oryzanol

It is important to keep your cholesterol levels under control as they can cause several heart problems. Oryzanol not only helps you maintain your cholesterol, but it also helps prevent obesity and is proven to be anti-diabetic. 

2. Benefits of Vitamins

Using refined cooking oil containing vitamins can aid you against night blindness, and help you build stronger bones. 

3. Presence of Antioxidants

The primary role of antioxidants is to protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. These free radicals can cause cholesterol oxidation. Refined oils do retain some natural anti-oxidants which help improve immunity & heart health. Saffola Total provides care for your health by attempting to maintain your cholesterol levels through nutritious cooking.

4. Eliminates Aflatoxin

Aflatoxins are a family of toxins created by particular fungi found on agricultural crops. These toxins result in nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, convulsions, and other signs of acute liver injury. Longer exposure to these toxins can lead to more severe health complications.

The process of refining oils gets rid of aflatoxin, eliminating the risk of you or your family coming into contact with it. 

5. Promotes Heart Health

Good fats are essential and help in keeping your heart healthy. MUFAs and PUFAs are fatty acids that are a type of healthy fats. They help control your cholesterol levels by increasing HDL Cholesterol and decreasing LDL cholesterol. 

Essentially, both fatty acids aid in promoting your heart’s health and reduce the risk of heart problems in the long run. The best way to achieve the benefits of MUFAs and PUFAs is by consuming a blended oil that combines the two. 

Saffola Gold is characterised by a dual seed technology that helps you achieve a good balance of the two healthy fatty acids to obtain better nutrition through fats.

To sum it up, refined edible oil is a staple ingredient in every kitchen, and the refining process is critical in making the oil safe and suitable for consumption. The process involves removing impurities and unwanted components from crude oil to produce a pure, stable and consumable product. If you are looking for a refined edible oil to keep your cholesterol levels in check, try Saffola Total. With significant improvements in refining methods and strict regulations in place, a safe and healthy choice for monitored thoughtful consumption.

Deep frying is a cooking technique that has been enjoyed by food lovers around the world for centuries. From crispy fried chicken to golden french fries, deep-fried foods are a delicious treat that many of us just can’t resist. However, it’s no secret that deep-fried foods are often associated with unhealthy fats and high-calorie content and must be consumed with precaution. 

 

In this blog, we will explore the world of healthy cooking oils and help you understand how to choose the better oil for deep frying that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also promote your overall health and well-being. So, let’s dive in!

 

Which kind of cooking oil is better for deep frying?

Firstly, it is important to choose an oil with a high smoke point, which is the temperature at which the oil starts to smoke and break down. When oil is heated beyond its smoke point, it can create harmful free radicals and toxic compounds, which can be detrimental to health. Hence, oils with a high smoke point are ideal for deep frying as they can withstand high temperatures without breaking down. 

 

The better oils for deep frying are those low in saturated and trans fats. Saturated and trans fats are unhealthy fats that can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. In contrast, oils with a balance of unsaturated fats like MUFA and PUFA are healthier and can help lower cholesterol levels.

 

Four Cooking Oils Good For Deep Frying

• Rice Bran Oil 

Rice bran oil has a high smoke point, which makes it ideal for deep frying. Rice bran oil contains antioxidants like tocopherols and tocotrienols, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. You can opt for Saffola Gold which is a blend of rice bran oil and sunflower oil and can be heated to higher temperatures without burning or smoking, which results in less oil absorption and a crispier texture. Rice bran oil and sunflower oil have neutral flavours, which means they won’t impart any unwanted taste to the fried food. This makes Saffola Gold a great choice for deep frying a wide range of dishes, including those that require delicate flavours. 

• Sunflower Oil 

 

Sunflower oil has a high smoke point and is also rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (MUFAs and PUFAs), and low in saturated fats. This makes it a healthier choice for deep frying compared to oils that are high in saturated fats, which can contribute to high cholesterol levels and an increased risk of heart disease. 

 

• Olive Oil

 

One of the healthy oils for deep frying is olive oil. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and has a high smoke point of around 375°F (190°C). It is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, etc. . (source)

 

• Canola Oil

 

Another good option for deep frying is canola oil, which is low in saturated and trans fats and has a high smoke point of around 400°F (204°C). It is also rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are healthier fats, hence making this an ideal oil for deep frying.

 

The Importance of lower oil absorption in Cooking Oils for Deep Frying 

 

Saffola Gold is a heart-healthy cooking oil that comes with LoSorb technology, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of deep-fried foods without having to worry too much about compromising on your health. With Saffola Gold’s Losorb technology, your food absorbs up to 33%* lesser oil, making it a healthier choice for your heart and overall well-being. So, if you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy your favourite deep-fried dishes, consider using Saffola Gold!

 

Losorb technology helps reduce the amount of oil that food absorbs during the frying process. This is especially important because fried foods are often high in calories and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to health problems like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Losorb technology results in healthier, less greasy food that tastes just as delicious as traditionally deep-fried dishes. 

 

You can learn more about choosing healthy cooking oils here.

 

Cardiovascular diseases affect countless lives globally and is a significant concern that emphasises the importance of prioritising heart health. Regrettably, there persists a common misconception that heart disease primarily affects men, leading to a concerning trend in women disregarding symptoms and neglecting their heart health.

According to statistics from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, cardiovascular disease is the primary reason for more female deaths than all types of cancers combined. Despite these alarming figures, only 44% of women are aware that heart disease poses a major risk to their health. In this article, we shall focus on the importance of women’s heart health and the necessary steps that should be taken for the prevention of heart diseases in women.

What are the common symptoms of heart problems in females?

1. Chest pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest is the most common symptom of heart disease in both men and women. However, women are also likely to experience pain or discomfort in their upper back, neck, jaw, throat, or stomach.
2. Shortness of breath: Women with heart disease may experience shortness of breath during routine activities or even at rest.
3. Fatigue: Constant tiredness and extreme fatigue for no apparent reason, is a symptom associated with heart disease in women.
4. Sweating: Most women with heart ailments tend to experience excessive sweating without any physical exertion.
5. Nausea or vomiting: Sudden nausea or vomiting with no specific cause is seen as another symptom of heart disease in women.
6. High blood pressure: Having high blood pressure raises the likelihood of developing heart disease, stroke, and premature mortality. (source)

Why is it important for women to look after their heart health?

Despite heart disease being one of the leading health concerns for women, it often goes unnoticed and underestimated. While breast cancer receives significant attention, it may come as a surprise that heart disease is actually seven times deadlier. Here’s why it is important for women to take good care of their heart:

1. Empower yourself with knowledge: 

Prioritise your heart health as a woman by understanding the unique risks and symptoms associated with heart disease. Keep your blood pressure in check, as uncontrolled blood pressure can lead to kidney failure, heart disease, stroke and even dementia. It’s important to monitor and keep it in check. Do keep in mind to schedule regular check-ups to monitor your heart health and undergo necessary screenings. 

2. Nurture your overall well-being: 

A healthy heart is the foundation for overall well-being. When you prioritise your heart health, you enhance your vitality, energy levels, and overall quality of life. It enables you to engage fully in daily activities, pursue your passions, and enjoy your life to its fullest potential. Heart disease becomes more prevalent with age, particularly after menopause in women. Post menopause women produce less oestrogen, once it loses the protective function of oestrogen, the susceptibility of health conditions increases. Recognising these risks can help women take proactive measures to protect their heart health.(source)

3. Preventive measures for a long and active life: 

By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, can help you reduce the risk of developing heart disease and the complications associated with it. Familiarise yourself with your family history of health conditions including age of diagnosis and regularly go for health check-ups. Regular physical exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and reducing consumption of alcohol and tobacco products are suggested steps towards long-term heart health. You can try opting for a healthy diet by including foods, such as whole grains, fruits high in fibre, fatty fish and nuts in your diet. (source) 

4. Impact on other aspects of health: 

Women undergo many life phases like menarche, pregnancy, lactation, and menopause, which can give rise to many bodily changes. Pregnant women with elevated blood pressure face a twofold increased risk of developing heart disease in the future compared to pregnant women. Women should thus be mindful of their overall health. Heart diseases can often be prevented by making certain lifestyle changes.

5. Be an inspiration for future generations: 

By taking care of your heart, you set a positive example for your family, friends, and future generations. Inspire others to prioritise their cardiovascular health by demonstrating the importance of making conscious choices and adopting healthy habits.

What measures can women take to reduce the risks of getting heart disease?

1. Eat a healthy diet: 

Women can maintain their heart health by following a well-balanced and nutritious diet. Try to include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and healthy fats in your diet. Leafy vegetables such as spinach are packed with vitamins A, C and K which help reduce inflammation. Fruits such as guava, aid digestion and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Beans, a great source of plant protein, has several anti-inflammatory benefits and improves overall health. Oatmeal is a good source of vitamins and fibre being good for health. The oil you use to cook your food also plays a crucial role in promoting better heart health and overall well-being. When consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet, these healthy fats which have the right balance of MUFA and PUFA, can help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and Total/HDL ratio. This, in turn, can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular conditions.  You can include oils such as Saffola Gold in your diet, to keep your heart healthy.

2. Exercise regularly: 

Including physical activity in your daily life can lower the risk of heart disease by improving heart health, lowering blood pressure, and maintaining a healthy weight. Alternating between cardio, resistance exercise, yoga, and walking 3-4 times a week which can help you achieve a physically active goal. You can consider resistance exercise, also known as strength training, which involves making your muscles work harder through activities such as lifting weights or using resistance equipment. It improves muscle strength, making everyday tasks and aerobic exercises easier. Aim for two to three sessions per week with adequate rest in between sets. As we age, resistance training becomes especially important for maintaining muscle strength. A simple walk for 20 minutes has also shown to be beneficial for heart health. 

3. Manage stress effectively: 

As modern women, we often find ourselves wearing multiple hats, from excelling in our careers to caring for our families and maintaining a harmonious household. Balancing these responsibilities can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming, leading to increased stress levels. Chronic stress can increase the risk of heart disease by elevating blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Women should incorporate stress-reducing practices like meditation, yoga, regular physical workouts and breathing exercises to mitigate the impact of stress on heart health.

4. Get enough sleep: 

Lack of proper sleep can increase the risk of heart disease by raising blood pressure levels and affecting metabolism. Try to prioritise getting sufficient sleep of seven to nine hours every night to reduce the risk of weight gain and high blood pressure.

To conclude, it is vital that women take good care of their heart health, and not fall for myths that claim heart disease to be a man’s issue. It is a significant concern, and it is necessary to take preventative measures and live a mindful life. Precautionary measures, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption, can go a long way in keeping your heart healthy.