Difference Between Health Benefits

When it comes to choosing cooking oils, we are often faced with a myriad of options. Among them, refined oil and cold-pressed edible oil have gained significant popularity. However, understanding the differences between these two types of oils is crucial to making informed decisions about our health.

Refined Oil

Refined oil has become a ubiquitous ingredient in kitchens worldwide, known for its versatility and long shelf life. However, the process by which refined oil is produced raises concerns about potential health risks. In this blog post, we will delve into the refined oil production process and explore the potential dangers it poses to our well-being. Understanding these risks is essential for making informed choices about the oils we use in our cooking routines.

The Refined Oil Process

The production of refined oil involves a series of refining steps that aim to remove impurities, odor, and color from the crude oil obtained from seeds or nuts. The process typically includes:

  • 1. Degumming

    This step involves removing gums, phospholipids, and other impurities using water or acid. It helps improve the oil's clarity and stability.

  • 2. Neutralization

    In this stage, the oil is treated with alkali to neutralize any free fatty acids present, which can cause rancidity and affect the oil's quality.

  • 3. Bleaching

    Bleaching agents, such as activated clay or carbon, are used to remove pigments, traces of metals, and other impurities from the oil, resulting in a clearer appearance.

  • 4. Deodorization

    The oil is subjected to high temperatures and vacuum conditions to remove any remaining odors and flavors, enhancing its shelf stability.

The process of refining oil involves several steps that can have harmful effects on the final product. During refining, crude oil undergoes various chemical treatments and refining methods, such as bleaching, deodorizing, and hydrogenation. These processes often involve the use of high heat, chemical solvents, and additives. Unfortunately, these practices can lead to the formation of harmful substances in the refined oil, including trans fats, free radicals, and acrylamide.

Potential Health Risks of Refined Oil

Loss of Nutrients: The refining process used in the production of refined oil can lead to the loss of essential nutrients and beneficial compounds naturally present in the crude oil. Vitamins, antioxidants, and phytonutrients may be significantly reduced or eliminated during the refining process.

Trans Fats Formation: The high temperatures used during refining can induce the formation of trans fats from unsaturated fats. Trans fats are known to raise bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other adverse health conditions.

Chemical Residues: Some refining agents, solvents, and additives used during the process may leave behind chemical residues in the refined oil. These residues can have harmful effects on health when consumed regularly over time.

Oxidative Stress: The refining process exposes the oil to high temperatures, oxygen, and light, leading to oxidation and the formation of free radicals. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress in the body, damaging cells and potentially contributing to chronic diseases.

The Cold Pressing Process

  • Preheat Setting

    The seeds or nuts are crushed or ground into a paste using mechanical methods, such as hydraulic presses or expellers. This process ensures the release of oil from the cellular structure.

  • Add Oilseeds

    The paste is placed between pressing plates, and pressure is applied to extract the oil. The pressure is carefully controlled to maintain low temperatures, preserving the oil's natural properties.

  • Get Fresh Oil

    The extracted oil undergoes filtration to remove any remaining particles or sediments, resulting in a pure and clear oil.

Retained

Nutritional Value

Cold-pressed oils retain a higher concentration of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids compared to refined oils. These nutrients are vital for supporting overall health and well-being.

Heart Health

Cold-pressed oils, such as cold-pressed olive oil or cold-pressed flaxseed oil, are rich in monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. These oils may help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease.

Antioxidant Power

Cold-pressed oils contain natural antioxidants, such as tocopherols and phenols, that help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can contribute to a stronger immune system and may have anti-aging properties.

Digestive Health

Cold-pressed oils, particularly those derived from seeds like sesame or sunflower, can support digestive health due to their high fiber content. They may help regulate bowel movements, promote a healthy gut microbiome, and improve nutrient absorption.

Skin and Hair Benefits

The nourishing properties of cold-pressed oils make them valuable for skincare and haircare. They can moisturize the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy hair growth.

Scientific Expert Opinions

Numerous studies have highlighted the potential health benefits of cold-pressed edible oils. For instance:

In a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, researchers found that cold-pressed oils had higher levels of antioxidants, including tocopherols and phenols, compared to refined oils[^1^]. These antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting our cells from oxidative stress.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends reducing the intake of trans fats, commonly found in refined oils, as they are known to increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases[^2^].

Nutritionist Sarah Johnson suggests, "Cold-pressed edible oils retain more nutrients and natural flavors compared to refined oils, making them a healthier choice for promoting overall health and well-being.

What do the experts say!

  • Dr S.C Manchanda

    MBBS | MD | DM - Cardiology

    "It is advisable to avoid refined oils, since during the refining process, oils are heated to high temperatures resulting in their degradation and generation of toxic substances."

    read more 

  • Rajiv Dixit

    Indian Activist, Ayurveda

    तेल को साफ़ करने के लिए जितने केमिकल इस्तेमाल किये जाते हैं सब Inorganic हैं और Inorganic केमिकल ही दुनिया में जहर बनाते हैं और उनका combination जहर के तरफ ही ले जाता है | इसलिए रिफाइन तेल, डबल रिफाइन तेल गलती से भी न खाएं |

    read more 

  • Seema Chandra

    Food Critic, NDTV India

    "changing or rotating oils is healthy as it gives the body the different essential fatty acids which it needs. Normally, no single oil has all the essential fatty acids and the fatty acids ratio which the body needs."

    read more