7 Oils You Should Include In Your Diet

While choosing a cooking oil, go for a variety with under 4 gm saturated fat in each tablespoon, is free from trans fats and is not a hydrogenated oil, says the American Heart Association.

Pic: Kind courtesy Lemone/Wikimedia Commons

Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

A top choice in households worldwide, because of its flexibility, according to Healthline, it’s a good source of vitamin E, a nutrient that guards cells from damage, lowers the risk of weight gain, insulin resistance, early adult-onset diabetes.

Pic: Kind courtesy Dina Said/Wikimedia Commons

Sunflower Oil 

With 14 per cent saturated fat, a high-oleic oil, with more beneficial monounsaturated fats. It can withstand intense heat without burning, ideal for preparing meals at elevated temperatures, states Cleveland Clinic.

Pic: Kind courtesy torange.biz/Wikimedia Commons

Almond Oil 

Rich in healthy fats and packed with vitamin E, states WebMD. The refined type handles high temperatures; suitable for frying or grilling. Unrefined version ideal in salads or pasta dishes.

Pic: Kind courtesy Savion6/Wikimedia Commons

Canola Oil 

Containing minimal saturated fat, abundant in monounsaturated fat (similar levels as olive oil), it's a good alternative to olive oil, states WebMD & Harvard Medical School.

Pic: Kind courtesy Mack Male/Wikimedia Commons

Sesame Oil 

This oil can handle moderately high cooking temperatures, with a smoke limit around 410°F. Contains powerful plant compounds like sesamol & sesaminol, which possibly support heart health and may offer protective effects for the brain, states Healthline.

Pic: Kind courtesy ILUAMUTHU/Wikimedia Commons

Avocado Oil 

Works well for both chilled dishes like salads and hot items requiring roasting or baking. Rich in oleic acid, a beneficial fat, when combined with vegetables, it helps your body take in more antioxidants, says WebMD.

Pic: Kind courtesy Linm KWOU Zhsuwomg/Wikimedia Commons

Peanut Oil

If you choose peanut oil for cooking, opt for the unrefined, cold-extracted type, which retains more natural goodness, including vitamin E, according to WebMD.

Pic: Kind courtesy Adam Engelhart/Wikimedia Commons
Go to rediff.com