Sunflower oil is a non-volatile oil that is extracted from sunflowers. Although most people are already familiar with sunflowers as plants, they don’t immediately think of sunflowers as a source of healthy vegetable oil.
This oil can replace some of the less healthy cooking oils in the market. It can also be used in certain cosmetic applications.
Golden, light and healthy, sunflower oil contains more Vitamin E than any other vegetable oil. It is naturally extracted from sunflower seeds and bears a subtle taste.
Refine sunflower oil has a high smoke point of 440-450 degrees F, which is why it is suitable for deep-frying and pan-frying. It can also be used for roasting, grilling, and baking.
Below are 6 health benefits of sunflower oil:
1. Promotes heart heath
Sunflower oil contains more than 80% of monounsaturated fats which makes it good for your heart. The impressive fatty acid content in sunflower oil helps in maintaining a balance in your body. Furthermore, it does not contain any saturated fats which help in controlling the cholesterol levels in your body.
2. Good for your skin
Sunflower oil is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin E which help in promoting skin health. These vitamins act as antioxidants. They help in regenerating damaged skin cells and getting rid of the acne causing bacteria. The oil is light and non-greasy and thus, it gets absorbed in the skin easily without blocking the pores. Sunflower oil also acts as a natural moisturizer and helps in treating dry, sensitive skin.
3. Energy booster
While saturated fats can make you feel lethargic, unsaturated fats energize you. It helps the discharge of glycogen into the bloodstream from the liver. Glycogen is a type of sugar that provides an extra boost of quick energy.
4. Gives beautiful hair
Sunflower oil helps to soften dry, frizzy hair and adds a beautiful shine. It has a very light texture and acts as a conditioner. You can massage it on your scalp once a week for soft, silky hair. Sunflower oil is also rich in gamma alpha linolenic acid (GLA) which prevents hair loss and is often used as a treatment.
5. Strengthens your immune system
Sunflower oil is rich in antioxidants and also strengthens the cell membrane barriers which make it harder for bacteria and viruses to enter the body. It increases the body’s ability to defend infections. Sunflower oil also contains protein that helps in building and repairing tissues and various enzymes required for healthy functioning.
6. Improves digestion
You may have not known but your cooking oil could be the reason for your digestive problems. A healthy cooking oil is one that is rich in monounsaturated fats (MUFAs). Sunflower oil is extremely light, easy to digest and better absorbed in your digestive tract. Sunflower oil also has mild laxative properties which can help prevent constipation.
