When it comes to frying food, many people use vegetable or seed oils like canola, corn, or soybean oil. However, recent research has shown that using olive oil for frying is actually healthier and more beneficial for your overall health.

What is Olive Oil?

Olive oil is a natural oil extracted from the fruits of the olive tree. It is commonly used in Mediterranean cooking and is known for its numerous health benefits.

The Benefits of Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. This can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

Additionally, olive oil has been shown to improve brain function and lower the risk of depression and anxiety. It may also help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

The Dangers of Seed Oils

While vegetable and seed oils are commonly used for frying, they can be harmful to your health. These oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can increase inflammation in the body and lead to chronic diseases.

Additionally, seed oils are often processed at high heat, which can cause them to become oxidized. This can produce harmful compounds that can lead to inflammation and damage to the body’s cells.

Why Olive Oil is Better for Frying

While many people believe that olive oil is not suitable for frying, recent studies have shown otherwise. Olive oil is stable at high temperatures and does not break down as easily as seed oils.

Additionally, olive oil has a higher smoke point than most seed oils, which means it can be heated to higher temperatures without burning or smoking.

Using olive oil for frying can also help preserve the flavor and nutritional content of the food being cooked. Unlike seed oils, olive oil does not add a heavy, greasy taste to the food.

How to Fry with Olive Oil

If you want to start using olive oil for frying, it’s important to choose a high-quality oil that is intended for cooking. Extra-virgin olive oil is not recommended for frying as it has a lower smoke point and can break down more easily.

It’s also important to use the right amount of oil – too little can cause food to stick to the pan, while too much can make the food greasy.

When frying with olive oil, use a medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan. This can cause the temperature to drop and make the food cook unevenly.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to frying, olive oil beats out seed oils for overall health benefits.

Not only is it more stable at high temperatures, but it also contains numerous antioxidants and healthy fats that can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

If you’re looking to improve your health and reduce your risk of disease, consider switching to olive oil for frying and cooking.