Palm oil is an extremely useful
vegetable oil derived from the pulp of the fruit of oil palms. The main source
of palm oil is the Elaeis guineensis tree, which is native to West and
Southwest Africa. Its use in this region dates back more than 5,000 years. A
similar oil palm known as Elais oleifera is found in South America, but it's
rarely grown commercially. However, a hybrid of the two plants is sometimes
used in palm oil production. In recent years, oil palm growth has expanded to
Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Indonesia.
These two
countries currently produce more than 80% of the world's palm oil supply. Like
coconut oil, palm oil is semi-solid at room temperature. However, its melting
point is 95°F (35°C), which is considerably higher than 76°F (24°C) for coconut
oil. This is due to the different fatty acid compositions of the two oils. Palm
oil is naturally reddish-orange in color because of its high beta-carotene
content. It is also one of the very few naturally saturated vegetable fats that
increase the LDL cholesterol levels in a person’s body. It’s commonly used as
cooking oil in Africa (West Africa, Nigeria), Southeast Asia, and certain
countries in South America. It has become more popular in other parts of the
world in recent years because of the health concerns of having too many trans
fats in the diet. In addition to nut
butters, palm oil can be found in several other foods, including:
Cereals
Baked goods like bread, cookies
and muffins
Protein bars and diet bars
Chocolate
Coffee creamers
Margarine
Health Benefits of Palm Oil
There is a number of health
benefits associated with palm oil as follows;
Boost immunity,
It prevent premature aging
It also protect against heart diseases.
Improves Energy Levels: Beta-carotene which is a prime component of
palm oil is very good for improving energy levels and boosting hormonal balance
in the body.
Improves Vision: Beta-carotene is extremely important for improving
vision. Antioxidants, found in palm oil, act as powerful defensive mechanisms
for the body. Using palm oil as a replacement for other types of oil can help
prevent macular degeneration and cataracts.
Prevents Cardiovascular Issues: It has a high content of HDL and
LDL cholesterol, though HDL is good & LDL is bad (LDL), it can still create
a healthier balance in your body. High levels of LDL cholesterol can increase
your chances of atherosclerosis, which can cause strokes and heart attacks. Maintain
a healthy balance of cholesterol, you can ensure a healthier cardiovascular
system.
Reduces Risk of Cancer: Tocopherols, a form of vitamin E, are
natural antioxidants that can help prevent cancer by neutralizing free
radicals. Free radicals cause healthy cells to mutate into cancerous cells, so
high levels of tocopherol in palm oil are necessary.
Supports Healthy Pregnancy: Vitamin A, D, and E are found in
considerable quantities in palm oil, and since the body cannot naturally retain
these vitamins, it’s necessary to consume them in our diets. Vitamin
deficiencies are some of the most dangerous conditions that are faced by
pregnant women and unborn children.
Caution: Avoid intake of palm oil if you have high cholesterol
levels in your body.
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