Good Natural Oils For Your Insides

Naturally derived oils are a bit like nutritional superheroes. They can help the brain and nervous system to function properly, protect the cardiovascular system and help store and produce energy.

Natural oils can also transport fat- soluble nutrients, assist in insulating your body in cold temperatures and help to maintain hormone balance.

NUTRITIONAL OILS

Avocado oil
Avocado oil contains high amounts of proteins and omega-3 fatty acids, which means it can be used as a light, healthy cooking oil, and is particularly good for salad dressings. Avocados are also great for heart health and can help to regulate blood sugar levels.

Coconut oil
Coconut oil is very versatile as it can be applied directly to the skin as an emollient or taken internally. It’s great to cook with as well, as it can be used at high temperatures and won’t set off your smoke alarm.

Fish oils
Fish oils, such as those found in salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines, are important sources of omega-3 essential fatty acids. They are rich in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), a fatty acid important for brain and eye health. They also contain EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), another omega-3 that helps reduce inflammation and blood pressure and improves blood flow.

Taking fish oil on a daily basis can be good for people with high cholesterol and rheumatoid arthritis and can help to fight heart disease. It can also help reduce period pain and is important for breastfeeding mums.

Flaxseed oil
Flaxseed oil is one of the best vegetarian sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 essential fatty acid. Flaxseed oil is high in antioxidants, B vitamins and dietary fibre, which is why it is effectively used to treat constipation.

Macadamia nut oil
Macadamia nut oil has higher levels of monounsaturated fat than olive or flaxseed oil and is uniquely low in omega-6s compared to other nut oils, but high in omega-3s. It also contains vitamin E and oleic acid, which has been shown to reduce inflammation, boost memory power and reduce symptoms of asthma. It has a rich, sweet, buttery flavour and is useful for cooking due to its high smoke point.

Olive oil
Olive oil has been around for thousands of years. It has a high level of mono- unsaturated fats and is rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin E.

“Olive oil is very beneficial for heart health and its high antioxidant content can protect us against heart disease and cancer,” says Leung. “It can also improve immunity and is anti-ageing.”

The “virgin” varieties of olive oil are thought to be the most beneficial as they have highest nutrient content. Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil can sometimes be your tummy’s best friend. Peppermint oil has long been used as a traditional remedy to relieve irritable bowel symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain by helping to remove excessive gas. It can also help to soothe nausea as well.

Oregano oil
Oregano oil is the king of the “antis”. It is antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and also an antioxidant. “Oregano oil is anecdotally used for intestinal parasites, to fight against virus, intestinal worms and fungi,” explains Leung.

Sesame oil
Not only does sesame-seed oil make your Asian-inspired stirfries and salads taste amazing but it can also lower your blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
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