On my journey to make better choices in the kitchen, I have found that selecting the right oil is a significant factor in the nutrition (and flavor) of my creations. Many commonly used and available oils might not be the healthiest options and you should put the energy in to understanding your choices. Here is a brief summary of some common oils- highlighting some healthy and not so healthy options.
The Essentials:
-
Pure Olive Oil: Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like vitamin E, our pure olive oil adds a flavorful kick to your baked goods without compromising on health benefits.
-
Avocado Oil: With its high monounsaturated fat content and rich nutrient profile. Monounsaturated fats, specifically oleic acid, is a type of fat is heart-healthy and may help reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL). Its also rich in antioxidants making this a healthy choice.
-
Coconut Oil: Boasting unique medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut oil is a versatile option with a high smoke point. It adds a distinctive flavor to your bakes without sacrificing health considerations.
-
Golden Ghee: Our ghee is clarified to perfection, offering a source of healthy saturated fats and fat-soluble vitamins. It's a good addition to your baking repertoire.
Navigating Away:
-
Soybean Oil: Say goodbye to soybean oil. It's high in omega-6 fatty acids, and although omega-6 fatty acids are essential, they should be balanced with omega-3's. Steer clear of the potential inflammatory issues associated with an imbalanced omega-3 to omega-6 ratio.
-
Corn Oil: Let go of corn oil - corn oil is another cooking oil high in omega-6 fatty acids. Like soybean oi, excessive consumption of omega-6 fatty acids without a proper balance of omega-3s can contribute to inflammation, potentially leading to health issues.
-
Canola Oil: Canola oil is relatively high in omega-6 fatty acids and has an imbalance ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids which may contribute to inflammation. Chronic inflammation is associated with various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and metabolic disorders.
I'm in this with you!! Learning, navigating, and trying to understand the best choices to fuel my body and make health a priority for my family while still being able to enjoy, create, and bake. So together, lets choose oils that bring both flavor and health benefits to our creations. Please do your own due diligence, as this is just my opinion based on personal research- I am not a nutritionist or health care provider. Cheers to Happy, Healthy Baking! - Liz
