In the wellness community, there is a debate raging as to which oil is healthier for you. Olive, coconut, canola, or vegetable oil all have different nutritional breakdowns.
When looking at these breakdowns, it’s important to note the types of fats in each oil, and also the ideal cooking methods. Some oils change chemically when exposed to high heats for specific amounts of time, which decreases their health benefits.
Here’s a breakdown of olive oil versus other oils so you can make your own decision as to which is healthier
Heart Healthy
The star of olive oil’s fatty acid profile is monounsaturated fat. Most of it is oleic acid that helps decrease LDL cholesterol and blood pressure. Coconut oil doesn’t have quite the same stellar profile as olive oil.
It was initially thought that the saturated fat in coconut oil was detrimental to your health, but recent studies have been changing that perception. The saturated fats in coconut oil have shown to raise your good cholesterol and lower triglycerides, which increase your risk of heart disease.
Additionally, pure vegetable oil is high in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are great for a healthy heart.
Antioxidants
Olive oil is filled with antioxidants – bioavailable phenomic compounds that can decrease the oxidative damage in your body and lower inflammation.
Other oils, like coconut oil, don’t have the same high-profile antioxidants. Coconut oil, however, does have antibacterial compounds that can play a role in fighting acne and other skin ailments.
Vegetable oils and canola oil shouldn’t be used over high heat for long periods as a chemical reaction occurs that produces harmful chemicals.
Final Thoughts
In comparing olive oil to other oils like coconut or canola oil, it is clear that the lion’s share of research highlights the many health benefits of olive oil.
Other oils have similar health benefits, but olive oil scores the highest in the monounsaturated fats and fatty acids that are so beneficial to humans. It also increases the bioavailability of C60 for even more health benefits.
