Don’t believe the myths of past years and regularly include rapeseed oil in your diet. It not only has a great nutritional profile, but also offers a number of health benefits.
While olive oil has long maintained its reputation as the healthiest oil, rapeseed oil can compete with it in many respects at a significantly more favorable price. Not only is it widely used in the kitchen, but it also contains important substances that are crucial for our health. What are its specific benefits?
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Source: Youtube
How rapeseed oil is made
In the past, this type of oil did not have a very good calling card, due to the presence of erucic acid. Currently, however, rapeseed varieties are grown that do not contain this acid. Rapeseed oil is obtained by pressing rapeseed (Brassica napus) seeds, which contain approximately 40% oil. During the entire process, the temperature, which must not exceed 35 °C, is under constant control. As a result, it has a yellow color and a very intense taste.
Smoke point
Rapeseed oil is one of the best alternatives to olive oil in the kitchen. It has a very high smoke point of 230°C and is extremely resistant to high temperatures without releasing harmful substances. It is therefore perfectly suited for heat treatments such as frying or baking.
Nutritional values
Due to the content of many valuable nutrients and cultural popularity, it is often called the “olive of the north”. Rapeseed oil is an excellent source of vitamins A, D, E and K, polyphenols, plant sterols (mainly β-sitosterol) and tocopherols, including α, β, γ and δ, which act as antioxidants in the body.
Rapeseed oil is a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic (omega-9), linoleic (omega-6) and linolenic (omega-3) acids. The mentioned acids are necessary for our body because it cannot synthesize them by itself.
Unsaturated fatty acids and health
Oleic acid (omega-9) has a positive effect on the level of “bad” LDL cholesterol, which it effectively lowers, and on the contrary, effectively increases the level of “good” HDL cholesterol. Linoleic acid (omega-6) is important for cell growth and development, supports a quality immune system and plays a vital role in the treatment of inflammation. Linolenic acid (omega-3) has significant anti-inflammatory effects and supports proper brain function.
A healthy cardiovascular system
Due to the content of vitamin E, K and omega 3, rapeseed oil protects the cardiovascular system from the formation of blood clots. Not only do the above-mentioned fatty acids regulate the correct cholesterol values, but also blood pressure, and further reduce the possible risks of atherosclerosis and other dangerous cardiovascular diseases.
Protection against free radicals
The antioxidants present help effectively neutralize free radicals and protect cells from possible damage. They are also effective in protecting against certain types of cancer and slowing the aging process of the skin.
Support of the digestive system
Due to the high proportion of vitamins, minerals and omega-3 fatty acids, rapeseed oil also has a positive effect on the digestive system, especially on the stomach and intestines.
Use of rapeseed oil
Rapeseed oil is versatile and can be used in both hot and cold cooking. It is suitable not only for frying and baking, but can also be added to fresh vegetable salads or to prepare dressings and marinades.
Resources: www.restauracezasedmero.cz, www.canolacouncil.org, www.pnwcanola.org
