What are Cold-Pressed Oils?
Before we discuss the cold-pressed oil benefits, it is crucial to first understand what it truly means.
Interestingly, the process of cold-pressing oils dates back to ancient India. Oil pressing machinery was discovered in the ruins of the Indus Valley Civilization. It means that our ancestors were cold-pressing oil even 5000 years ago!
Oil producers used a long, cylindrical oil-extracting apparatus, which was known as “Ghani.” Other local terms include “Chekku” and “Kolhu.”
Seeds such as sesame, coconut, olives, peanuts, sunflower, mustard, etc. were added to the mortar and pestle contraption. Thereafter, an animal perambulates around the device to apply pressure on the seeds and to extract the oil from it. Thus, the mechanical action of crushing and pressing of seeds to yield oil.
It was during the 1950s when industrialists realised that a combination of high heat and chemical solvents helped increase the volume of oil extracted from the seeds. It also introduces consistency in colour, taste, and flavour of the oil. Furthermore, industries add more chemicals to stabilise oil and increase its shelf life.
Cold-Pressed Groundnut Oil Benefits
At first glance, one of the significant cold-pressed groundnut oil benefits is apparent – it is more natural and less processed. Hence, it is naturally healthier than refined groundnut oil. Plus, it will also contain a richer and more authentic flavour.
Here are are cold-pressed groundnut oil benefits that are worth consideration:
It is Loaded With Antioxidants
Oil refining subjects the oil to extremely high temperatures. As a result, it damages all the antioxidants naturally present in groundnut oil. On the other hand, cold-pressed oils are processed at room temperature. Hence, it is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
As a result, cold-pressed groundnut oil contains a high concentration of vitamin E, oleic acid, and other nutrients. While Vitamin E neutralises free radicals, fatty acids boost immune health. Therefore, cold-pressed groundnut oil grants several benefits.
It Promotes Heart Health
Peanut oil is free from cholesterol, which makes it a healthy fat. It contains high levels of HDL, which reduce the risk of developing heart-related conditions. Additionally, the presence of plant-based sterols in the cold-pressed, organic groundnut oil helps support heart health.
As Phytosterols are better-absorbed by the gut and the stomach, it competes with cholesterol and reduces its concentration. On the other hand, Resveratrol interacts with hormones, such as angiotensin, which controls arteries and veins. Thus, cold-pressed groundnut oil helps with the regulation of blood pressure and the resultant stress on your cardiovascular system.
It May Fight Cancer
While studies in this regard are still underway, there are a few claims that cold-pressed groundnut oil benefits cancer prevention and recovery. The presence of bioactive compounds and unsaturated fats can help fight cancer.
Moreover, there are established links between lowered risk of prostate, breast, and colon cancer and beta-sitosterol and phytosterols. These plant-based compounds contain anticancer properties that inhibit tumour growth and carcinogen production.
It Boosts Skin Health
Apart from ingesting the oil, you can also apply cold-pressed groundnut oil topically for boosting skin health. The high vitamin E content reverses skin conditions and signs of ageing. The oil creates a skin barrier that locks in moisture and prevents skin dryness.
It May Improve Insulin Sensitivity
One of the lesser-known cold-pressed groundnut oil benefits is its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This characteristic is present due to the high concentration of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in peanut oil. Your body slows down the absorption of fat and secretes more insulin, both of which contribute to better blood sugar management.
Now that you know the many organic, cold-pressed groundnut oil benefits, you may give it serious consideration for making it a part of your diet.
Benefits of Groundnut Oil (Peanut Oil)
Nutritional Facts of Groundnut Oil
Peanut or groundnut oil is extracted from the seeds of the peanut plant. There are many varieties of peanut oil available in the market such as refined peanut oil, cold-pressed peanut oil, gourmet peanut oil and blended peanut oil. You can choose and pick any of these as per your requirements. This nutritious oil is loaded with the goodness of many vitamins and minerals.Benefits of Groundnut Oil
Switching Benefits of Cold Pressed Oils
Today there is an increasing rate of obesity, especially among young people. It has led to the awareness of how oil is extracted and manufactured. This is one reason why cold-pressed oils are getting popular in our kitchens. People are getting more and more aware of the kind of oils they use while cooking food.