Is refined oil bad for health? Which food oil we should use.

Question

Cooking oil needs to be chosen carefully to maintain heart health and optimum levels of cholesterol in the body. I advise using oils or fats which are least processed and are indigenous like desi ghee, mustard oil, coconut oil alongwith Olive oil (if you dislike the strong taste of other locally produced oils). Many latest studies point out the benefits of Indian Ghee and locally produced oils which have not been refined. But whichever fat medium you use, the quantity needs to be controlled. Also, take care that Olive oil should not be the Extra virgin variant as it should not be heated at high temperatures (as is usually the case with Indian Style Cooking). Do not reuse your cooking oil as this can result in the creation of trans-fat.

Shalini Singhal · Accepted Answer

Cooking oil needs to be chosen carefully to maintain heart health and optimum levels of cholesterol in the body. I advise using oils or fats which are least processed and are indigenous like desi ghee, mustard oil, coconut oil alongwith Olive oil (if you dislike the strong taste of other locally produced oils). Many latest studies point out the benefits of Indian Ghee and locally produced oils which have not been refined. But whichever fat medium you use, the quantity needs to be controlled. Also, take care that Olive oil should not be the Extra virgin variant as it should not be heated at high temperatures (as is usually the case with Indian Style Cooking). Do not reuse your cooking oil as this can result in the creation of trans-fat.