Top 3 Best & Worst Cooking Oils

Cooking oils are a staple in every kitchen and play a crucial role in our diets. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which oils are the best for our health. Some oils are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, while others are loaded with unhealthy saturated fats. To make matters even more confusing, some oils are touted as healthy due to their high smoke point, but in reality, they are filled with unhealthy trans fats. In this blog post, we will dive into the top 3 best and worst cooking oils based on their nutritional and health benefits, helping you to make informed choices when it comes to cooking and dressing your food. So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into the oils you should be reaching for and those you should avoid.

Top 3 Worst Oils

Cannola oil

Canola oil has long been touted as a healthy cooking oil, but in reality, its composition and processing methods raise concerns about its impact on our health. Canola oil is made from the canola plant, which is a hybrid of the rapeseed plant. The problem is that the rapeseed plant naturally produces toxic compounds, so to make the oil safe for consumption, it must undergo a refining process that involves high heat, chemicals, and solvents. This process not only removes the harmful compounds but also strips the oil of its beneficial nutrients, leaving a highly processed, low-quality oil that is high in Omega-6 fatty acids. A diet that is high in Omega-6 fatty acids and low in Omega-3 fatty acids can cause an imbalance that leads to inflammation in the body, which is linked to a range of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Soybean oil

Soybean oil is one of the most widely used cooking oils and is often marketed as a health food. However, it is far from healthy due to its high content of linoleic acid and the presence of pro-inflammatory compounds. The high linoleic acid content in soybean oil can cause oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to a number of negative health outcomes. Additionally, the processing of soybean oil often involves high heat and the use of chemicals, further damaging the oil’s nutritional value and potentially creating harmful compounds. These factors make soybean oil one of the worst cooking oils to consume, particularly for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Corn oil

Corn oil, a popular cooking oil, is considered unhealthy due to its high levels of omega-6 fatty acids, which can contribute to chronic inflammation in the body. Omega-6 fatty acids are pro-inflammatory, meaning they promote inflammation, and are found in large quantities in corn oil. The average American diet already contains a high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, and consuming large amounts of corn oil can further imbalance this ratio. Chronic inflammation has been linked to several health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune diseases, so it’s important to be mindful of the types of oils you consume and choose healthier options.

In addition to its high Omega-6 content and pro-inflammatory effects, there are several other reasons why corn oil is considered unhealthy. One of these reasons is the refining process that corn oil undergoes, which often involves the use of harsh chemicals and high heat, resulting in the formation of harmful by-products such as trans fats. Furthermore, corn oil is typically produced from genetically modified corn, which raises concerns about the safety of consuming genetically modified foods. These factors all contribute to the overall unhealthiness of corn oil, making it a less desirable option when compared to healthier cooking oils like olive oil or avocado oil.

Top 3 Best Oils

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is a healthy alternative to many common cooking oils due to its high content of beneficial nutrients like vitamin E and oleic acid. These nutrients provide numerous health benefits, making avocado oil a popular choice for those who prioritize their health and wellness. Its high smoke point also makes it ideal for high-heat cooking methods, making it a versatile and nutritious option to replace oils like corn, soybean, and canola oil. The high concentration of monounsaturated fats, especially oleic acid, in avocado oil has been shown to improve heart health and may also have anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, helps to protect cells from oxidative damage and supports a healthy immune system. These health benefits, combined with its rich and nutty flavor, make avocado oil a top choice for cooking and for those following a healthy lifestyle.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is a treasure trove of health benefits and a staple in both the Ketogenic and Mediterranean diet. It is derived from the first cold press of the olive fruit and contains high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids, specifically oleic acid, which has been linked to reducing inflammation and improving heart health. Extra virgin olive oil is also a good source of antioxidants, including vitamin E, which protects cells from damage caused by free radicals. These health benefits, along with its rich, fruity flavor, make extra virgin olive oil a great addition to your diet and an excellent choice for cooking, baking, and drizzling on salads.

Virgin Coconut Oil

There are two main types of coconut oil, refined and unrefined (virgin) coconut oil. Although they have similar fatty acid content, virgin coconut oil contains higher amounts of nutrients such as vitamin E and bioactive compounds such as polyphenols (plant materials that have antioxidant properties). Lauric acid is a type of saturated fat found in coconut oil, in fact, this oil contains the highest levels of lauric acid in any natural source. Studies have shown that lauric acid travels to the liver and is converted into energy instead of being stored in your body as fat, which could potentially help in weight loss. Additionally, lauric acid has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest this may have the potential to improve both immune health and insulin resistance.