Sunflower oil is a popular choice of oil. It is made from processing the sunflowers seeds. In recent years, sunflower oil has gained attraction due to its immense health benefits. It has a pleasant golden color and is easily available. Read more to know about sunflower oil benefits, nutritional information, and side effects.
12 Sunflower Oil Benefits
Made from pressed sunflower seeds, sunflower oil is one of the healthiest oil available in the market. Highly popular as cooking oil, this fantastic oil has several health benefits. So, if you’re wondering about, the benefits of sunflower oil then you’ve come to the right place. Read on!
1. Improved Oral Health
If you suffer from oral health issues then sunflower oil might be the perfect solution for you. The wonderful oil has antibacterial properties that can kill germs. Tooth decay, bad breath, plaque-related gingivitis can easily be prevented by using sunflower oil on the mouth.
Tip – Gargle regularly with sunflower oil every day to get the best results.
2. Heart Health Promoting Action
Sunflower oil is a rich source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, choline, and antioxidants. These compounds can reduce the level of LDL cholesterol and reduce atrial blockage. Thereby, improving blood circulation in the heart and improving heart health in the long run.
3. May Have Immunity Boosting Action
The oil is rich in antioxidants, omega 3 fatty acids. These compounds have a strong immune-boosting effect it the body. Additionally, sunflower oil also strengthens the cell membrane barrier in the cell, which makes it harder for harmful microbes to invade the body.
4. Provides The Essential Energy To The Body
Sunflower oil’s health benefits also include better energy levels. If you feel tired easily then it’s best to include this delicious oil into your diet. It’s loaded with healthy polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. These fats can give your body the much-needed energy boost and relieve fatigue.
Also Read:- Rice Bran Oil vs Sunflower Oil Differences
5. Reduce Inflammation In The Body
Yes, sunflower oil might be very beneficial in reducing inflammation. Due to its high antioxidant and healthy fatty acids compounds. Additionally consuming sunflower oil might prevent gastric inflammation caused by the drugs.
6. Reduced Risk Of Arthritis
Sunflower oil is good for health as it reduces the risk of arthritis. Bountiful in omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants, sunflower oil can help reduce inflammation in the joints. Thereby, providing relief from arthritis. So, if you suffer from arthritis symptomatology try adding sunflower oil into your diet for joint pain relief.
7. Helps Fights Asthma
Sunflower oil can be very helpful in preventing and managing the symptoms of asthma. The oil is loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and fatty acids. These compounds can improve immunity and prevent asthma attacks.
8. Better Digestion
The oil is enriched with healthy fatty acids that are easier for the body to digest. Additionally, the oil has been proven to have laxative properties. Which makes it easier for stool to pass out. So if you’re struggling with digestive issues, make sure to have sunflower oil handy!
9. Can Lower The Cholesterol Levels
Sunflower oil is a rich source of phytosterol. These compounds mimic the structure of cholesterol and get absorbed in the body. This ultimately results in less cholesterol absorption. Therefore, helps in cholesterol management.
Per 100g of sunflower oil has a phytosterols content of about 253.25 mg.
10. Improved Hair Health
Sunflower oil benefits include shiner, longer hair. The oil is enriched with hair healthy compounds like vitamin E, oleic acids, antioxidants, etc.
Reduces Itchy scalp – The antioxidant content in the oil may reduce the irritating itchy scalp.
Stop Hair Breakage – The oleic acid present in the oil can reduce hair breakage & provide nourishment to the hair roots.
Shiny Longer Hair -Vitamin E content improves blood circulation, provides essential nutrients to the hair scalp.
Also Read:- Best Foods For Hair Growth
11. Have Wound Healing Properties
Yes, sunflower oil has strong wound healing properties. The oil is enriched omega 6 fatty acids, these chemical compounds can regenerate and replace the wounded cells. Additionally, applying sunflower oil also provides moisture to the damaged area. Therefore, helping the body heal faster.
Tip- Carefully apply sunflower oil to the infected area for faster wound healing.
12. Get Better, Glowing Skin!
Sunflower oil benefits for skin include better glowing skin. As the oil is rich in vitamin E, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents. Some of the benefits include.
Moisturizing action – The oil has a light, nongreasy texture which can be easily absorbed by the skin.
Oxidative Stress Protection – Active antioxidant compounds present in the oil prevent the skin from harmful oxidative stress damage.
Better Skin Texture – Vitam E seeps deep into the skin pores, provides nourishment, and strengthens skin health.
Sunflower Oil Nutrition Profile
Sunflower oil has many incredible health benefits. If you are considering including the oil into your daily diet then it’s necessary to know the nutritional constituents. Let’s look at some interesting sunflower oil nutrition facts.
The Sunflower oil nutritional value per 100g is following
| Nutrition | Nutritional Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 884 kcal |
| Total Fat | 100 g |
| Saturated fat | 13 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 63.75g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 20.45g |
| Vitamin E – 41 mg | (274% DV) |
Sunflower Oil Side Effects
Although sunflower oil has many excellent health benefits, unfortunately, excessive usage might cause health complications. Some of the sunflower oil side effects include: –
1. May Cause Inflammation
Sunflower oil is rich in omega 6 fatty acids. While in the moderate amount they can protect & heal the body. However, in excessive amounts, these fatty acid content may flare up the inflammation in the body.
2. May Cause Allergic Reactions
Sunflower oil may cause an allergic reaction in some people. Many people are allergic to Asteraceae/Compositae family. Some symptoms include – itching, runny nose, headaches, nausea, vomiting, etc.
Note – Contact a medical practitioner immediately in case of a severe allergic reaction.
3. Increase Blood Sugar Levels
Exessive use of sunflower oi can increase the fasting insulin and blood sugar levels in the body. This in turn may cause your blood sugar to spike up in high amounts. Therefore, it is best to consume sunflower oil in moderation.
4. Potential Toxicity
Avoid heating sunflower oil to high temperatures. When cooked at high temperatures the oil may release potentially toxic compounds (aldehydes) that may cause organ damage.
5. Weight Gain
While sunflower oil is good for health excessive usage may cause unwanted weight gain. This is due to high fatty acids Omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids) content in the oil. So, it is best to use the oil in moderation.
Conclusion
Sunflower oil is plant-based oil processed from sunflower seeds. They are extensively used for cooking due to their immense health benefits. Some of the health benefits include – better skin & hair health, improved digestion, and a stronger heart. Make sure to add it to your diet for a healthy, energetic life!
