A Question of Oils

Lately in the store, I (the only girl behind the counter) have noticed some confusion over what type of oils to use, and the health benefits of said oils. A lot of people assume that you can use every type of oil in all situations – not so. In fact, some of the healthiest oils have their health benefits destroyed, and can even become rancid when used at high temperatures.

I decided it was time to create (with the help of some of my favorite nutrition blogs) a guide to the best of the Better Bulk oils. So here goes!

COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil has a bad rap, because of its saturated fat content. In actuality, coconut oil has been proven to RAISE good cholesterol levels without raising bad cholesterol levels. It also speeds up your metabolism and is anti-viral, which can only mean good things for your immune system.

Coconut oil is safe for cooking at ANY temperature, and can be used in baking, stir frying, and just about anywhere else you use oil. It’s not the best for cold things, as it solidifies at room temperature, but if you mix melted coconut oil with cocoa powder, you can make an awesome chocolate ice cream shell. As a result, it should be stored at room temperature, not refrigerated.

We stock two varieties of coconut oil: Maison Orphee, which tastes like coconut, and Omega Nutrition, which has a neutral flavor. I use both, myself, depending on what I’m cooking/baking.

GRAPESEED OIL

Grapeseed oil is a lesser-known, but very versatile oil. It is rich in antioxidants, helps with good cholesterol, and can help with circulation issues. It is often used in cosmetics thanks to its moisturizing properties.

Like coconut oil, it is safe for use at high temperatures. As a result, it is commonly used for stir frying. Unlike coconut oil, it is in a liquid form, so it can be used for salad dressings, mayonnaise, etc.

FLAXSEED AND HEMP SEED OILS

Flax and Hemp oils are similarly popular due to their high concentration of good Omega-3-6-9 essential fatty acids. Flax oil has also been known to help balance hormones.

These oils CANNOT be used in cooking, as they are destroyed by heat. They are sensitive to light, as well, which is why you will (hopefully) see them packaged in opaque containers. They should be kept refrigerated to make sure they maintain all their good properties. They are ideal for salad dressings, etc.

OLIVE OIL

Olive oil helps to balance fatty acids in the body, and is proven to lower cholesterol levels. It also can lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure. It may also help reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Olive oil is a popular oil in many cultures, and is used in many forms of cooking. You have to be careful, though, which variety of olive oil you use in what type of cooking. Most forms of olive oil are safe at any temperature, but extra virgin olive oil is destroyed at higher temperatures, and should only be used in, you guessed it, salad dressings and the like.

We have a variety of olive oils at Better Bulk, but all of them are EVOO, so while they are the healthiest version of olive oil, I’ll likely steer you towards grapeseed or coconut oil if you’re using them for cooking.

For more information on oils, their health benefits, and even some recipes, check out these links:

Joy McCarthy of joyoushealth.ca on Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

*UPDATE* Also watch Joy on The Morning Show talking about oils

Margaux J. Rathbun of authenticselfwellness.com talks All About Oil

Benefits of Flaxseed Oil

5 Health Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil

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