Recently, nutritional and health benefits of palm oil have become the subject of debate among western businessmen, farmers, health experts and nutritionists. To this end, it is important to set the record straight for those who, for many centuries, have been, and continue to be consumers of this oil as a food source. Here are 6 major benefits of palm oil.
1. PALM OIL HAS A BALANCED FATTY ACID PROFILE
Palm oil contains a mix of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats. Among the saturated fats is found palmitic acid (PA). It helps the body store energy . It facilitates metabolic functions and cell division. It is essential for biological reproduction. It helps create sphingolipids found in cell membranes that help protect brain and nerve cells. Palmitic acid is also needed to make other beneficial fatty acids like palmitoleic acid (POA). This POA, which is monounsaturated fatty acid is not commonly found in foods. This POA protects the body against insulin resistance, inflammation and fat storage. It also has anti inflammatory and lipid lowering effects. Therefore moderate consumption of palm oil helps prevent cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance associated with diabetes and obesity. Palm oil is safest when consumed as PART OF A HEALTHY OVERALL HEALTHY DIET as opposed to the type of consumption that is found in processed foods.
2. PALM OIL IS A GOOD SOURCE OF VITAMIN E
Palm oil is a good source of vitamin E, especially tocotrienols and tocopherols. Tocotrienols lower cholesterol levels and provide heart health benefits. Tocopherols support anti-cancer activities. Both compounds have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, potentially reducing cellular damage and inflammation. Antioxidants help provide protection from heart disease.
3. PALM OIL IS A GOOD SOURCE OF CAROTENOIDS
Palm oil contains Carotenoids like beta-carotene. This is what gives it a reddish-orange color. The human body uses Beta-carotene to make vitamin A, which is an essential nutrient for vision, immune function, and skin health.
4. PALM OIL IS A GOOD ENERGY SOURCE
As a source of dietary fat, palm oil provides about 9 calories per gram. It can be beneficial for individuals who need to increase their caloric intake, such as those with high energy demands or those experiencing malnutrition.
5. PALM OIL IS A SOURCE OF VITAMIN K
Palm oil contains some amount of vitamin K. This vitamin is essential for blood clotting and good bone health.
6. PALM OIL IS CHOLESTEROL FREE
Like all plant-based oils, palm oil is cholesterol-free. This can be advantageous for those seeking to reduce their cholesterol intake.
7. EATING PALM OIL WITH FOOD HELPS THE ABSORPTION OF NUTRIENTS
Palm oil in the diet helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and certain phytonutrients. Consuming palm oil with nutrient-rich foods helps your body absorb essential compounds in your diet.
CONCLUSION
PRECAUTIONS:
- MODERATION AND VARIETY In spite of these wonderful benefits of palm oil, there are two precautions to take. High intake of saturated fats has been associated with increased Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, as with any dietary component, moderation is key. Instead of relying solely on palm oil in your diet, try to incorporate a variety of fats and oils. Other good sources of oils include avocado oil, olive oil and coconut oil. This will ensure a balanced intake of essential fatty acids and beneficial nutrients.
- OVERHEATING: Do not overheat palm oil. Overheating tends to break the oil down, and destroy its essential phytochemicals. Overheating also tends to produce toxic chemical compounds that includes free radicals. These free radicals are unstable atoms that damage cells.
Our fathers and mothers have used palm oil in their foods for centuries and have done well. Continue to use this essential food item sensibly to improve your health and that of your family.
Do you use palm oil? How do you use it?
Please let us know in the comments section.
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