Reasons Not To Use Canola Oil Anymore
Canola oil is an important staple in many households. Do you have it in your kitchen? Should you keep it?
Canola oil is a Canadian invention. It was first created as a natural oil, but now is a genetically modified product which is alarming. 87 percent of canola oil in the US is genetically modified, while 90 percent of the Canadian crop is genetically modified (GMO). Canola oil is also part of many processed and packaged foods.
Some view canola oil as a healthy option, others avoid it at all cost. Many claim that canola oil is toxic and contains a chemical warfare agent, mustard gas. Others believe that it is healthy as it contains lot of omega-3s and is low in saturated fats.
Who is right? Let’s dig deeper.
What Is Canola Oil?
Rapeseed oil comes from the rapeseed plant. In the 1970s, a group from the University of Manitoba developed the first canola bred from rapeseed. In 1998 they developed the most disease- and drought-resistant canola with genetic engineering. Canola oil is an excellent industrial oil and a good ingredient of candles, soaps, inks, lubricants and insecticides. However, it is also sold as an edible oil marketed as an oil low in saturated fats and rich in omega-3s.
Canola Oil Nutrition Facts
One tablespoon of canola oil has 124 calories, which comes from 100 percent fat. Canola oil contains a good amount of vitamin E and K. It is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, however, it is also high in omega-6 fatty acids. One tablespoon of canola oil contains about 8 grams of monounsaturated fats, 4 grams of polyunsaturated fats, 1 gram of saturated fat and less than 0.1 grams of transaturated fats. Exact amount of calories and nutrients may differ per brand and manufacturer.
Why Is Canola Oil Bad for You?
While the original rapeseed oil may not have been so bad for your health, the canola oil today can be harmful to your body because:
- About 90 percent of canola oil is genetically modified.
- Canola oil is a refined oil that is often partially hydrogenated.
While there are no long-term studies on the topic, some studies show that GMO canola oil can cause issues with kidney, liver and neurological health. This is enough to think twice and choose better options.
Dangers Of Canola Oil:
- According to research, GMO canola oil may lead to kidney and liver problems.
- Research shows that partially hydrogenated canola oil can lead to inflammation, calcification of arteries and coronary heart disease.
- Research has found that canola oil can increase the risk of high blood pressure and strokes.
- The FDA made canola oil illegal in baby formula as it can interfere with normal growth and harm infants.
- According to research, when canola oil undergoes hydrogenation, it increases its level of trans fat and can lead to unhealthy cholesterol.
- According to the Center for Food Safety, GMO foods, such as GMO canola can increase the risk of toxicity, allergic reactions, immunosuppression, cancer and nutrition loss.
Substitutes For Canola Oil
There are some excellent, healthy, nutritious and safe alternatives you can use for canola oil, including:
- Coconut oil
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Red palm oil
- Ghee or organic, pasture-raised butter
- Avocado oil
Considering the health risks of canola oil, it is important to consider your options. There are some safe and healthy alternatives, such as coconut oil and olive oil out there that are better for your health and are even tastier options. Cook smart and choose your health.
What are your favorite alternatives to canola oil? Share your answers in the comments, we would love to hear your thoughts.
And remember, we’re in this together.
Kat Gál is a professional holistic health writer who helps health, wellness and nutrition businesses to market their products and services through quality online content. Kat is a multi-passionate writer, world traveler, nomad, runner, and cat-person.Reach out if you are looking for amazing blog content at email@example.com or katgalwriter.com. Check out my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/katgalwriter. and nobsfreelancer.com for freelance writing tips.
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