10 Good Reasons To Use Groundnut Oil More Often.

Groundnut oil is the edible pressed oil from groundnuts with a good flavour and aroma. It is also called peanut oil. The colour of groundnut oil varies from light yellow to deep yellow depending on the method of extraction. Most of the groundnut oil processed in Nigeria is done manually by the locals, which makes it all natural. Groundnut oil has wonderful nutrients and properties which help to promote health. Below are some of the reasons to use groundnut oil for cooking, hair and body care.

Nutrients in Groundnut oil.

• It has 49% monounsaturated fatty acids, 33% polyunsaturated fatty acids and 18% saturated fatty acids.
• High in fatty acids like stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid.
• High in calories.
• Contains antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols.

Health benefits of groundnut oil.

1. It is good for heart health because of the high content of monounsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols.
2. Oleic acid helps in decreasing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol levels in the blood.
3. It helps to lower blood pressure levels.
4. It boosts the immune system because its good oils protect the body cells.
5. It is a natural moisturizer.
6. Promotes skin, hair and scalp health because of its high vitamin E content and other antioxidants.
7. Prevents or reduces blemishes, wrinkles and premature aging.
8. It can be used to treat skin and hair conditions like dandruff, dry skin and cracked lips.
9. It can be used as a massage oil.
10. Groundnut oil is wonderful for cooking, especially for frying, because of its high smoking point. It has a long shelf life, so it doesn’t spoil easily.

Groundnut oil like all oils and fats have high calories and need to be consumed in moderation.  We need to avoid using most of the refined vegetable oils in our local markets or reduce their consumption. We need health boosting natural oils which are all around us. Groundnut oil is great for frying eggs, fish, meat, yam etc. and  it gives your food a pleasantly unique taste.

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