Groundnut oil is the commonly known name for peanut oil. It is widespread in many kitchens for health benefits and diverse cooking purposes. Be you using it as a dressing for salads or frying other foods, groundnut oil has nutrients. In this article, we shall discuss the highest health benefits of groundnut oil and why it is worth having in your kitchen.
Here are the top Health Benefits of Groundnut Oil-
- High in Healthy Fats
Groundnut oil is full of monounsaturated fats. Healthy fats reduce bad cholesterol. A reduced bad cholesterol level makes it healthy for the heart. Hence, the body needs healthy fats to maintain a check on the cholesterol level. However, a healthy heart is achieved through cooking with groundnut oil.
- Packed with Antioxidants
Groundnut oil is rich in vitamin E, the most powerful antioxidant. An antioxidant will not allow free radicals to harm your cells. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your cells. They may eventually lead to health problems with time, such as ageing. But vitamin E would neutralise those damaging molecules; thus, it makes groundnut oil encourage healthier skin and cell protection.
- Supports Heart Health
Groundnut oil is very beneficial for the heart. It has a proper ratio of omega-6 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats. This ratio also reduces the risk of heart disease. Moreover, it contains zero cholesterol, which makes it good for the heart. All the better is cold-pressed groundnut oil since it retains nutrients.
- Boosts Brain Function
Omega-6 fatty acids exist in groundnut oil. They are required for the production and functioning of the brain. Additionally, they are known to boost memory as well as brain performance. A diet rich in appropriate amounts of omega-6 fats also makes the brain sharp. Therefore, when you intake groundnut oil, then it will contribute to sharpening your mental clarity, too.
- Helps in Reducing Inflammation
Anti-inflammatory compounds are found in the groundnut oil. Diseases have been linked with so many chronic inflammations. Such diseases include heart disease, arthritis, and even diabetes. However, a compound in groundnut oil decreases most of these risks due to anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it reduces inflammation consequently contributing to general health.
- Aids in Blood Sugar Control
This provides advantages to diabetic patients due to the healthy fats. These healthy fats will manage blood sugar. It also holds the benefit of cold-press oil with minimal processing to maintain all the nutrients and then regulate blood sugar. Furthermore, it is great for diabetics.
- Promotes Healthy Skin
It is good for healthy skin. This oil contains the vitamin E that nourishes and moisturises the skin. Apart from this, its anti-ageing property prevents wrinkles from forming. However, the usage of groundnut oil enhances the elasticity of the skin. It even calms dry, itchy skin when applied topically.
- Boosts Immunity
Groundnut oil has high amounts of phytosterols. Phytosterols are the plant’s compounds that facilitate immunity. They assist in body functions to fight infections, as well as increase immune activity. Additionally, phytosterols in the oil extracted through wood pressing exceed that of refined oil. Therefore, by choosing the oil from wood pressing, your body’s natural immunity will be enhanced.
- Helps in Weight Management
Groundnut oil keeps off extra calories. It has high-calorie values but is very healthy in reasonable intake. Saturated, monounsaturated fats take a long time to fill the body. Taken together with a balanced diet, it may aid weight loss, though that takes moderate consumption.
- Provides an Energy Boost
It contains a high amount of energy. Fats in the oil can be easily absorbed and, hence, utilised as energy. So a little supplement to your diet will keep you energetic. It is highly recommended for the energetic crowd. Moreover, it can be used instead of any other oil for different recipes.
- Supports Healthy Hair
Groundnut oil is also good for the hair as well as the skin. It contains all those important nutrients that enhance hair growth. Additionally, vitamin E found in it lessens hair damage. Improvement of hair texture and shine, together with keeping the scalp healthy and moist, comes through groundnut oil application for hair treatment.
- Enhances Digestive Health
Groundnut oil improves the flow of bile. A healthy flow of bile is helpful in digestion and nutrient absorption. Cold-pressed oil is also gentle on the stomach. Although, it is recommended for sensitive stomachs.
- Reduces the Risk of Cancer
Groundnut oil contains plant sterols, which may reduce the risk of cancer. Plant sterols inhibit the growth of cancerous cells. Additionally, antioxidants in it protect cells from damage. Therefore, groundnut oil in your diet will be a preventive measure.
Tips for Using Groundnut Oil in Cooking
To get the ultimate benefits, use cold-pressed groundnut oil. Cold-pressed oil possesses more nutrients than refined oil. Furthermore, wood-pressed oil is another great way to preserve purity. Be careful not to overheat the groundnut oil as some of the nutrients might become destroyed because of it.
Conclusion
Many healthy benefits are packed in groundnut oil. It keeps your heart, brain, and immunity strong. Furthermore, it keeps your skin and hair healthy while maintaining the digestive system in a healthy state. But if you want to continue getting all these benefits to you, then you can opt for cold-pressed or wood-pressed oil. Therefore, try to add this oil to your diet to enjoy a healthier life.
