Deep-fried food has become an integral part of modern lifestyles, enjoyed by people of all ages. However, few are aware that the oils used in frying can be harmful to health.
When oil is heated repeatedly at high temperatures, its oxidation level increases, leading to the formation of free radicals and trans fats. These substances pose risks to the stomach and intestines.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, such oils reduce digestive fire and create ‘Ama’—a toxic substance in the body that increases fat accumulation and causes various diseases. Excessive consumption of fried foods and oils also raises the risk of heart-related ailments.
So, which oils are suitable for cooking and deep frying? Ayurveda recommends desi ghee, coconut oil, mustard oil, and peanut oil for these purposes. These oils retain their beneficial properties even at high temperatures.
For example, desi ghee oxidizes less and produces fewer free radicals when heated up to 250 degrees Celsius. Coconut oil contains about 90% saturated fat, which makes it more stable and less prone to oxidation compared to other oils when heated repeatedly. Peanut oil has a high smoke point of around 230 degrees Celsius and also produces fewer free radicals when heated, though repeated heating should still be avoided for health reasons.
On the other hand, it is advisable to limit the use of soybean, sunflower, corn, rice bran, and olive oils for deep frying.
Five Ayurvedic Rules for Deep Frying
1. Avoid using the same oil repeatedly. 2. Do not use oil once it starts smoking. 3. Avoid mixing different oils. 4. Strain the oil after frying before reusing it. 5. Use thick-bottomed utensils for frying.
Following these guidelines helps retain the nutritional quality of the oil while reducing health risks associated with deep-fried foods.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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