Shopping for healthy cooking oils can get a little…complicated.
What is peanut oil?
Peanut oil is an oil made from peanuts.
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Peanuts have a mild, earthy taste and creamy texture, thanks to their high fat content.
This is why oils with higher smoke points are preferred for high-heat cooking.
Summary
Nutritional value.
The other 20% comes from saturated fat.
The monounsaturated fatoleic acid7is the main fat in peanut oil.
It’s also rich in linoleic acid, a bang out of omega-6 polyunsaturated fat.
Different forms of peanut oil.
This is why dietitians, likeWhitney Crouch, RDN, CLT,recommend you choose your peanut oil wisely.
Health benefits of peanut oil.
However, this isn’t to say that saturated fats can’t fit into a heart-healthy diet.
It provides phytosterols.
What’s unhealthy about peanut oil?
Peanut oil is high in the omega-6 fat linoleic acid.
“I don’t avoid omega-6-rich oils completely,” she says.
It may increase the risk of certain health conditions.
This is just one of the many reasons health experts recommend limiting your intake of fried foods.
It contains aflatoxins.
So, is peanut oil healthy?
Peanut oil vs. other oils.
Compared to peanut oil, olive oil has a lowersmoke pointof around410 degrees Fahrenheit25and contains feweromega-6 fats.
Peanut oil vs. canola oil
They’re comparable.
Refined coconut oil has a smoke point of450 degrees Fahrenheit27and is commonly used in high-heat cooking.
Both can be healthy in moderation; it depends on your health goals.
Those who are looking to reduce their saturated fat intake will want to be careful with coconut oil.
Is it diet-friendly?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is peanut oil healthy for diabetics?
When eaten in moderation, peanut oil can be included in a healthy diet for those with diabetes.
Is peanut oil healthy for frying?
Refined peanut oil has a high smoke point, which makes it ideal for frying.
Is peanut oil inflammatory?
The takeaway.
Peanut oil is a fat that’s commonly used in high-heat cooking methods like deep-frying.
Looking for more ways to incorporate healthy fats into your diet?
Check out this master guide tothe best cooking oils to useand which ones to avoid.