If you cook often, you probably know that there are a variety of cooking oils that you could use. However, did you know that some oils are healthier for you than others? There are cooking oils that have certain health benefits due to their chemical properties.
Different types of cooking oils.
Vegetable Oil
Vegetable Oil is probably the most commonly used oil and is often used when frying food. It contains Vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties. Vitamin E also has other benefits such as preventing clogging of arteries, reduce risk of strokes, and reduce sensitivity to sun exposure.
Canola Oil
Canola Oil is also commonly used when frying food. It is debatable on whether or not canola oil is healthy for you or harmful for you. Some believe that canola oil is good for your heart. Others believe that it is actually bad for your heart due to the processes it goes through to obtain the oil.
Olive Oil
There are several different types of olive oil (virgin, extra virgin, extra light, and refined). Extra virgin olive oil, often abbreviated by EVOO, is the most commonly used. It is often used to drizzle over salads and as an ingredient when cooking. Olive oil is said to be the healthiest of all oils. What’s For Dinner lists some of the health benefits of olive oil:
- Reduce blood pressure
- Inhibit the growth of some cancers
- Benefit people at risk for or with diabetes
- Lessen the severity of asthma and arthritis
- Actually help your body maintain a lower weight
Peanut Oil
Peanut oil has higher saturated fats compared to other cooking oils. This means that it is a good oil to use when cooking in high temperatures, which is why many people use it when frying their food. It is important to use the correct oil when cooking in high heat because the high heat can damage the oil and ultimately be harmful to your health.
Although some oils are healthier than others, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is good for you. So even though olive oil has certain health benefits, it doesn’t mean you should go deep fry all of your meals in it. Remember that too much of something is never good for you.
Now it’s your turn readers, what is your favorite cooking oil to use? Leave your comments below, thank you! 
I am currently attending the University of California, Riverside. I am also currently interning at IT Retail as an inbound marketer. My tasks as an IT Retail intern are writing blogs, updating our social media accounts, and optimizing our website.
