7 reasons sunflower oil scores high as a healthy oil
In Indian households, no recipe is complete without oil even oil-free idlis are supplemented with the chutneys and sambar. Being an integral part of cooking, it is extremely important to choose an oil loaded with several health benefits. 7 reasons sunflower oil scores high as a healthy oil and the reasons are explained below. One such highly nutritious and not commonly used oil for cooking purposes is sunflower oil.
Why is Sunflower oil healthy?
Being non-volatile in nature, sunflower oil contains the healthy fats such as linolic acid, palmitic acid and oleic acid. In addition to this, the presence of Vitamin A, D and makes this oil highly nutritious in the nature. Sunflower oil is mildly yellow in colour, has the pleasant taste and light texture and fragrance. Here are 7 health and beauty benefits of sunflower oil you probably didnot have an idea about!
Keeps your heart healthy
Sunflower oil contains the high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E , which are responsible for lowering the blood cholesterol levels and improving functioning of the heart. Hence, it is wise to include this oil as part of the daily cooking oil to keep your heart healthy. Apart from this, the low content of saturated fat makes this oil good for patients suffering from the heart disease.
Fights cancer
Being packed with the high amounts of phytochemicals, daily intake of sunflower oil wields a protective effect against the cancer. It also contains vitamin E, an antioxidant which neutralizes the harmful effects of toxins and free radicals present in body, thereby preventing colon cancer, lung, skin and uterine cancer.
Slows down ageing
Sunflower oil is rich in the vitamin E, which prevents the skin damage and also helps in skin renewal. Apart from this, the oil contains other phytochemicals that helps in speeding up healing process of the skin. By shielding effect of free radicals on the skin and portrait a protective effect against exposure to the sun, it prevents skin damage, making you look younger. To reap its skin-healthy benefits, apply sunflower oil to the skin before going to bed and wash your face in the morning.
Packs with protein punch
Not many people are aware of fact that sunflower oil has protein in abundance, which repairs tissues and increases production of enzymes and hormones. So if you are planning to increase the protein intake, start by including sunflower oil in the food. High amount of protein also supplements the wear and tear your body undergoes.
Prevents cataract
Being one of the richest sources of vitamin A, sunflower oil acts as the perfect natural measure to prevent eye related problems common in adults, such as cataract. So use this oil for your cooking purposes to increase the daily intake of vitamin A and get protected from vision problems.
Enhances immunity
Are you highly prone to infections? If yes, replace your cooking oil with sunflower oil for its far-reaching health benefits. This oil will not only strengthen the membranes of the skin barriers but also improve the immune function , thereby preventing infections.
Nourishes your hair
As sunflower oil is light in texture and loaded with the nutrients especially fats, applying this oil to the hair makes your tresses smooth and frizz-free. It also protects your hair from harmful effects of chemicals by providing right amount of nourishment to the hair streak. The presence of gamma alpha-linolenic acid prevents the hair from becoming too thin.
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