Before moving on to specific varieties, it is worth first mentioning the production of oils in general. Cold-pressed oils dispense with the refining process (which strips them of their nutrients), so they are still rich in what they got from the plant from which they were obtained: fatty acids, phytocompounds, vitamins and minerals.
However, such products cannot be used for frying, as the fatty acids in them are destroyed (oxidized) under the influence of temperatures and even become toxic. Cold-pressed oils are only suitable for "cold" use, such as salad dressing.
Olive oil
When buying olive oil, pay attention to the label. After all, it may turn out that we are going to purchase a completely different product that interests us. Olive oil extra vergine is the healthiest because the production does not deprive it of valuable nutrients. Obtaining such a product is the result of mechanical, not chemical, action, due to which fatty acids, vitamins and minerals remain in it. Extra Virgin Olive Oil has a low acidity (less than 0.8, preferably 0.3 or less).Another type is oliva vergine, which has a higher acidity and is inferior in quality. In the store, we can also come across refined olive oil, which is already suitable for frying, but at the same time it is a product devoid of natural flavor and refined, therefore, by and large, useless.
Thus, taking care of health, you need to choose extra virgin olive oil. It helps to reduce "bad" cholesterol and increase "good" - due to the presence in it of oleic acid, which belongs to monounsaturated fatty acids. In addition, it contains a lot of vitamin E, nicknamed the vitamin of youth, and vitamin K1. Due to the presence of squalene in olive oil, this product has a protective effect, protecting against the formation and development of cancer cells. Regular consumption of olive oil slows down the aging process of the skin and supports bowel function.
How to use olive oil? It is best to add it to a salad, and if you do not like the usual taste, try adding spices to it or purchase oil with different tastes(e.g. garlic), so you will enrich the taste of food.
Linseed oil
Flaxseed oil is considered one of the most useful and healthy. It is one of the main ingredients of Dr. Joanna Budwig's healing diet, according to which the use of flaxseed oil can cure many diseases, including hypertension, abdominal obesity, and even cancer.Flaxseed oil contains a lot of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, in particular, alpha-linolenic acid. If we compare the compositions of vegetable oils, we can see that in most of them omega-6 significantly dominates over omega-3. Meanwhile, omega-3 fatty acids strengthen the heart, brain, hair, skin and nails, and immunity. Unfortunately, we usually consume too little of them, but much more - omega-6 acids, the excess of which has a pro-inflammatory effect and even contributes to the development of cancer.
Omega-6 acids are present in high amounts in vegetable oils, including peanut, sunflower, corn and grape seed oils. And omega-3's are found in fish, in particular, and people who don't eat them may have trouble maintaining a balance between these two "opposing" acids. This category of consumers is especially recommended to use linseed oil.
hemp oil
Third on the list of the healthiest oils is hemp oil (seed, not Indian). It is becoming popular again, which is good, because it deserves attention. The herbal product contains essential fatty acids necessary for life (the previously mentioned omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the correct ratio), as well as vitamin E and not a large number of B vitamins, minerals. Vitamin K can also be found in it, which is responsible for normal blood clotting, which reduces the risk of thrombosis. In addition, hemp oil supports the immune system, reduces the level of "bad" cholesterol, so you should include it in your diet every day.
Cold pressed oil should have a slightly nutty flavor. It is noteworthy that the hemp product has excellent cosmetic properties. Due to the presence of gamma-linolenic and stearic acids in a unique proportion, it has a wonderful effect on the condition of the skin.
Coconut oil
Another leader is coconut oil. This herbal product is obtained by pressing and heating copra. In the past, coconut oil has been “demonized” due to a large proportion of “unhealthy” saturated acids (over 90%, primarily lauric, myristic, palmitic and caprylic) and not very large amounts of liquid unsaturated acids (oleic, linolenic). The product has a solid consistency up to a temperature of about 24 degrees, and above this limit it turns into a liquid state and changes color to slightly yellowish.
Contains vitamins B, E, C and minerals, coconut oil is an easily digestible fat with unique health benefits. Thanks to a very good proportion of medium-chain fatty acids, it is not stored in the body as fat, it speeds up metabolism, which helps in the fight against extra pounds. Coconut oil's main acid, lauric, greatly improves immunity and is known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Coconut oil also reduces the risk of developing diabetes, thanks to the presence of the aforementioned caprylic acid, it protects teeth from caries, helps fight candidiasis by destroying fungal cells. This product has a positive effect on the functioning of the heart and circulatory system, reducing the level of "bad" cholesterol and thereby lowering the risk of atherosclerosis.
Cold-pressed liquid vegetable oils should always be bought in glass bottles, and best of all - in dark bottles. They are never put in the sun, because because of this they quickly lose their valuable properties. It is worth keeping them in the refrigerator. The shelf life of liquid oils is about 3 months, solid - coconut - about 2 years.
Not everything is useful that cold-pressed
Unfortunately, not all cold-pressed vegetable oils are healthy. Quite popular in our kitchens, sunflower oil contains omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in a ratio of more than 650:1, while the recommended daily dose of fatty acids should be present in a ratio of< 5:1.
From this point of view, rapeseed oil is much better, in which the proportion of omega-6 acid to omega-3 is approximately 2:1. Omega-6s predominate in other well-known oils, however, they can be used from time to time, since they also have healing properties. For example, in sesame oil (proportion about 138:1) you can find sesamin, which has the effect of reducing and slowing down the formation of body fat. And the oil from walnuts recommended for people who have heart problems: it reduces cholesterol levels, may affect the reduction of blood pressure.
For Russians, sunflower oil is the most traditional vegetable oil. It is made from sunflower oil annual. This heat-loving and light-loving plant from southern Mexico has successfully taken root in Europe. Currently, sunflower plantations account for 70% of its world crops. Products extracted from the plant, including unrefined sunflower oil, have absorbed useful and nutritious substances concentrated by the sunflower from the surrounding nature.
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Classmates
The product is obtained from annual sunflower seeds by cold or hot pressing and extraction. cold pressed is also called press. It can also be obtained at home. Hot pressing and extraction are carried out in oil mills. The production process consists of several stages:
- preparation of raw materials (cleaning seeds from litter, hulling, separation of kernels and husks);
- crushing kernels in rollers, getting "mint";
- extraction from mint with a press;
- dissolving the pulp obtained after pressing with the help of organic solvents;
- distillation (extraction) of the oily substance from the solution and the solid residue (micelles and meal) in the extractor.
The spin derivative is subjected to settling or purification from related impurities (refining). There are several cleaning methods (chemical, physical, mechanical), as a result of which the color, smell, density and other qualities of the product change.
Unrefined oil has a rich dark yellow color.
In the manufacture of cold-pressed sunflower oil, heating is sometimes still used. Seed kernels passed through the rollers, the so-called. mint, are placed in baking pans and subjected to heat treatment at a temperature of 45 ° C. Further, under high pressure, the juice of the seeds is released, which is then sent to sediment and storage.
When cold pressed, it is not allowed to use any chemical treatment, add preservatives and exceed the temperature above 45 ° C. Excessively overheated sunflower raw materials will give the product a burnt taste and smell, deprive it of many useful components. Sometimes manufacturers raise the heating temperature of raw materials to 90 ° C. With hot pressing, the pressing process is accelerated and the yield of the product increases, while with cold pressing, 20-30% of the oil component remains in the cake.
In unrefined cold-pressed varieties pleasant taste and the aroma of roasted seeds, an oily substance that gently coats the mouth and throat when swallowed.
The presence of the inscription "Extra Virgin" on the label is a guarantee that this is an unrefined cold-pressed product.
How is it different from refined?
When starting cooking, housewives should understand the difference between refined sunflower oil and unrefined sunflower oil. The purified product has no smell and pronounced taste of seeds, therefore, when dressing salads and canned food, when roasting and adding to the dough, it does not affect the taste and smell of dishes. Refined varieties have a longer shelf life and are cheaper.
The difference between refined and unrefined sunflower oil is in the chemical composition. During the cleaning process, many useful substances are lost, which reduces the healing properties.
Unrefined sunflower oil in terms of useful qualities is not inferior to olive, soybean, corn.
Compound
The composition of unrefined sunflower oil includes a large amount of fatty acids. Their average molecular weight is about 290 atomic units. A large proportion belongs to omega-9-oleic (25-40%) and omega-6-linoleic (45-60%) acids. Also, the unrefined product contains palmitic, stearic, myristic, arachidic, omega-3-linolenic acids.
Unrefined varieties are famous for containing vitamins that have been preserved during the cold pressing process. So α-tocopherol (vitamin E substance) is contained in an amount of up to 70 mg / 100 g. In olive oil, this figure is up to 24 mg / 100 g.
It is a powerful neuroprotector and antioxidant, it protects cell membranes from breakage as a result of oxidation, stabilizes mitochondria, regulates metabolic processes and immunity, and reduces the risk of malignant tumors. Another important vitamin found in unrefined butter is K.
Benefit for health
The benefits of unrefined sunflower oil are due to its composition. The combination of vitamins and fatty acids allows it to have the following effects:
- regulate fat metabolism, accelerate metabolism, as a result of which “bad” cholesterol and excess weight are reduced, regeneration of muscle and bone tissues is improved;
- improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system and the brain (prevents degenerative changes, memory loss), strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
- reduce blood viscosity and the risk of blood clots;
- help form cell membranes and nerve fibers;
- improve liver function and digestion, eliminate constipation;
- strengthen immunity;
- prevent premature aging;
- and nails;
- improve the functioning of the endocrine and genitourinary systems.
Unrefined sunflower oil has not only benefits, but also harm, if consumed immoderately.
Which is more useful - refined or not?
Traditionally, the question of which sunflower oil is more useful, refined or unrefined, is answered by giving preference to the latter because of its greater naturalness. However, not all so simple.
Specific taste and smell are created due to the presence of impurities in the product - pigments, odorants, soaps, natural contaminants. With the systematic use of these substances can have a negative effect on the body.
In addition, the answer to the question of which sunflower oil is better, refined or not, depends on the purpose of its use. For frying, baking and canning with heat treatment purified varieties are preferred. They do not lose quality when heated, do not violate the taste and smell of cooked food. In addition, the shelf life of unrefined oil is much shorter. If the hostess makes a supply of food for a long time, it is better for her to prefer peeled varieties.
Is oil treatment effective?
Treatment with unrefined sunflower oil should be agreed with the doctor after a preliminary medical examination. An important point of any therapy is dosing. In the amount of 20-50 g (up to 3 tablespoons), the unrefined product has a therapeutic effect, in a larger dose it can have the opposite effect.
There are many recipes for healing mixtures of traditional medicine with the addition of olive or sunflower oil. For therapeutic agents, only the unrefined product is intended to be used. In some cases, it is helpful to simply drink a spoonful of oil.
How to use?
In order not to harm your health, you should know how to use unrefined sunflower oil. You should not use it more than 20-50 g per day, so as not to disturb the lipid balance of the body and not gain excess weight. To achieve a healing effect, the intake must be regular.
Since the oil contains vitamins that are easily destroyed when heated, it makes no sense to use an expensive healing product when frying, baking and canning. Although there are recipes that recommend adding a lot of oil to the jar before seaming without subsequent sterilization. The most common and correct way to use an unrefined product is dressing vegetable salads.
Can you fry?
Choosing cooking recipes, housewives decide the question - is it possible to fry in unrefined sunflower oil. If there is no other option, then as an exception, once, you can. It should be borne in mind that the vitamins will not be preserved, the taste and color of the oil will change, and the taste properties will also change. fried dish. Some types of fish do not go well with the taste of unrefined varieties, and vegetable fried will spoil the taste of the soup.
Cooks need to clearly understand why it is impossible to fry in unrefined sunflower oil all the time. Substances dissolved in oil, when heated, change their structure, break down, turn into toxins and carcinogens.
Possible harm from use
The main point limiting the doses of unrefined varieties is high calorie content (890 kcal / 100 g) and the presence of a large amount of fat (99.9 g / 100 g). It is undesirable to eat more than 3 tablespoons per day. Otherwise, the fat balance of the body, the work of its internal organs and systems will be disturbed, weight will increase.
During the frying process, toxins that are harmful to the body can be formed. People suffering from chronic diseases (hypotension, blood incoagulability, gallbladder problems, etc.) should consult a doctor about the admissibility of using oil or reducing doses. With some anomalies of the body, the positive properties of the product turn into negative ones. There are cases of allergy to the ingredients of sunflower oil. In addition, the expired product will cause harm.
Shelf life and storage
The shelf life of unrefined sunflower oil, especially that which has not been mechanically refined, is rather short. It easily precipitates and has a cloudy color.
It should be clearly remembered how long unrefined sunflower oil is stored. After opening the package, the product should be used within a month. It should be stored in a glass container in a dark place at a temperature range of 5-25°C. If the color, smell and taste have changed, you should stop using the product.
Irina Kamshilina
Cooking for someone is much more pleasant than for yourself))
Content
Vegetable oil is a popular product that is used by housewives all over the world in cooking when preparing salads, soups, frying, stewing and canning. How sunflower oil is obtained, what are the unique properties of this useful product, what are the benefits and harms of unrefined oil - these are the range of issues that will be discussed in this article.
What is sunflower oil
Vegetable oil obtained from sunflower seeds is called sunflower oil. It is extracted from ripened sunflower seeds, widely used in cooking, industrial canning, soap making, paint and varnish production, pharmaceutical, cosmetology production (it is part of various ointments, creams). The industrial method of squeezing seeds was invented in 1829, since then it has been the most popular Russian oil product.
Compound
Main useful component included in chemical composition sunflower oil are omega fatty acids. This type of vegetable oil product is an almost indispensable source of vegetable fats: saturated fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid, linolenic acid) - vitamin F. In addition to them, the product is saturated with vitamins D, A and E. The energy value(caloric content) - 899 kcal. The content of all substances per 100 g of the product is given in the table below:
Kinds
There are several types of classification of vegetable oils, including sunflower. There are types of product according to the method of obtaining (type of extraction) - cold (the greatest benefit), hot pressing, and obtained by extraction. The following types of sunflower oil that have undergone various purification methods are common:
- unrefined sunflower (rough mechanical cleaning; has a sharp specific odor);
- hydrated (purified with hot water);
- refined (additionally purified after mechanical cleaning);
- deodorized (deodorization - steam treatment under vacuum).
To answer the question, what vegetable oil it is better to buy, you need to understand in which cleaning method a greater amount of useful substances is preserved in the product. After passing through several stages of purification, the nutritional properties of sunflower oil are reduced, so the most useful is an unrefined cold-pressed oil product that retains the maximum percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids.
How do they do
The manufacturing process of the product begins with the cleaning of sunflower seeds and their grinding. The higher the humidity and the degree of ripening of raw seeds, the greater the amount of product obtained at the exit. Before squeezing the seeds, pulp or mint is obtained from them. Then, by pressing or extraction (chemical separation of the resulting mixture into an oil product and a miscella), oil is isolated from this mass. During subsequent refining, it is further purified with hot water.
Application
A vegetable oil product from sunflower is one of the most popular Russian dressings, which is widely used to prepare the most different dishes, for dressing salads. However, cooking is not the only area of \u200b\u200bits application. Due to its high oleic composition, the product is used in the manufacture of cosmetics, added to ointments and creams. It is also used in its natural form - in the process of treating a number of diseases and promoting health. Traditional healers recommend drinking a tablespoon of the oil product in the morning on an empty stomach to improve digestion.
The benefits of sunflower oil
Sunflower seeds contain vitamins and a number of essential trace elements such as phosphorus. The benefits of sunflower oil for the body lies in the high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which normalize metabolic and reproductive processes, improve the condition of the skin and hair, strengthen the vascular walls, activate immune system.
refined
High-quality refined deodorized oil is widely used for frying, it is considered a more dietary product with a lower cholesterol content. In cooking, it is mainly used for frying and preserving dishes, it is transparent, does not have a pronounced odor, does not contain sediment, and is perfectly stored for a period of one to three months.
unrefined
This type of sunflower seed pomace gives a product that retains the maximum amount of their original beneficial properties. Therefore, the use of this type is useful for:
- strengthening of cell membranes and vascular walls;
- normalization of the digestive system;
- improving the functioning of the endocrine and genitourinary systems;
- skin strengthening and hair growth.
cold pressed
With cold pressing technology, useful and medicinal properties the oil product is preserved best. Therefore, it is used for most recipes of traditional medicine and in cosmetology, as part of masks for hair, face and hands. Such a product perfectly moisturizes dry skin, making it more elastic, activates healing and natural renewal of epithelial cells.
Frozen
Freezing technology cleans the oil product from waxy impurities, thereby increasing transparency. The frozen sunflower oil product is recommended for people on a dietary diet, since the content of harmful impurities in it is minimal. Vegetables are fried and stewed on it, added to light desserts and pastries.
sunflower oil treatment
Useful properties of sunflower oil (unrefined, obtained by cold pressing) are widely used in folk medicine. The simplest and most effective method of strengthening the overall health of the body is to suck on a sunflower oil product in the morning on an empty stomach. The oral cavity is the place where a large number of nerve endings are concentrated, plus due to contact with the salivary glands, the best absorption of the remedy occurs. Dial in your mouth dessert spoon oil, roll over the entire cavity for 1.5-2 minutes without swallowing.
To strengthen immunity, it is good to give a teaspoon of a sunflower oil product in the morning to children (this method is especially relevant for the cold season). Unrefined sunflower oil is added to herbal infusions used in the treatment of constipation, diseases of the liver, kidneys, and cholelithiasis. For example, oregano tincture (3 tablespoons of herb per 0.5 liter of oil product) is taken to relieve pain from stomach ulcers.
Sunflower oil in cosmetology
The benefits of vegetable oil for moisturizing the skin and improving its condition lies in the high content of fatty acids in it. The simplest face mask is easy to prepare by mixing:
- unrefined sunflower oil - 15 g;
- steamed cereals- 10 g;
- large strawberries - 5 pcs.
Apply the mixture on your face, keep until completely dry. After several applications, the skin of the face will be cleansed, tightened, become more elastic, and acquire a fresh healthy look. For hands, a different recipe is used:
- fat cottage cheese - 100 g;
- unrefined sunflower oil - 1 tsp.
Grind cottage cheese with an oil product, apply on clean, dry skin of the hands for 7-10 minutes. Make a mask once a week. To strengthen and activate nail growth, hold your fingertips for two to three minutes three times a week in a mixture of sunflower oil product with lemon juice in a ratio of 1:5. The same mixture can be applied to the hair roots to accelerate growth, reduce the percentage of loss.
Harm of sunflower oil
Use only a fresh product so as not to harm the body by eating pomace from the seeds of any sunflower varieties. Check the expiration date when buying, pay attention to transparency, the absence of sediment or impurities. Store unrefined oil in a glass container, observe the maximum shelf life of an opened bottle - no more than 30 days.
Discuss
The benefits and harms of sunflower oil - the composition of refined and unrefined, price
Cold pressed oil is an indispensable product in the daily diet. healthy eating. Its benefit lies in the fact that at the time of manufacture it retains all the vitamins and minerals that are present in the raw material without the use of harmful impurities.
Definition
For cooking, there is a single technology of cold pressing, which ultimately gives the most delicious and healthy product. The result is an ingredient of the highest quality, which is used both in cosmetic purposes as well as in food. The oil perfectly preserves a considerable amount of trace elements, phospholipids, vitamins and acids. All this is achieved due to the fact that the structure of biological substances is not disturbed during production.
The process of such an extraction consists in pressing the necessary seed when the mass is heated to 45 degrees. It should be noted that this technology provides a smaller volume of raw materials obtained, when compared with other manufacturing options.
What is good for health?
To date, cold-pressed products have filled the shelves of supermarkets, but not everyone knows about their usefulness, and they prefer the gas station familiar to many.
In order to understand the need for the use of raw materials, you need to understand technological process its manufacture. Sunflower seeds, flax seeds and other ingredients are sent to a special press, after which juices are squeezed out of them under great pressure. In this regard, the temperature of the refueling mass rises.
It should be noted that even those who follow the raw food diet can safely use this product for food.
Thanks to this method of manufacture, it retains all the vitamin complexes inherent in certain kind oils. It also contains amino acids and natural ones that are involved in the formation of cell membranes, and they, in turn, are responsible for the normalization of metabolism.
How to choose
It must be remembered that a real product at the time of production should not be chemically processed, as well as the introduction of various preservatives. The use of such supplements is very important for those who seek to improve their health and eat natural food. Based on the foregoing, when choosing, it is necessary to be guided by the presence of a pleasantly pronounced aroma, as well as a qualitatively different taste.
For example, the first cold pressing, as well as products of the same manufacturing method, deteriorate quickly enough, this confirms their naturalness. They have sediment and good turbidity. By adding these herbs to your diet, you can improve your health. When buying, you need to be careful, especially for raw foodists, as some manufacturers can increase the production temperature to 90 ˚С. With such processing, useful substances begin to disappear. A product that smells of burnt or burnt oil does not meet all production standards.
Equipment
For manufacturing, you will need a screw oil mill, which should include a cold-pressed oil press. Such devices are different types. The main difference is the amount of processed raw materials, as well as the output power. For small businesses, machines that process 6-10 tons of seeds per day are perfect. For larger firms, you need to choose devices with greater productivity.
What is the difference between cold and hot pressing
Today, a huge number of oil manufacturers have appeared on the market, as such products are becoming increasingly popular. Prices for these items vary greatly. It turns out that the label "unrefined" does not always mean that the oil is produced in compliance with all requirements and will bring the maximum health benefits. Processes can be divided into hot and cold pressed. The first type of production uses high temperatures, which in turn speeds up the production of the product. With this treatment, much more oil comes out than with the second option. By using a different kind of fabrication, a much more useful end result can be obtained. This technology allows you to get the highest quality product, which, in turn, costs more, because up to 30% of the oil remains in the cake.
Hot pressing reduces the amount of nutritional and beneficial properties. With flawless production, there should not be a sharp strong taste and aroma. Also, when swallowed, the oil pleasantly envelops the throat and leaves behind light taste. In order to choose the right cold-pressed oil, you should pay attention to the inscription - Extra Virgin. The difference in quality and usefulness for the body is great, so the decision is up to everyone personally.
olive
Production begins immediately after harvest, that is, the dates fall at the end of November - beginning of December. Berries need to be cleaned of twigs and leaves, and then washed thoroughly. Next, the fruits are crushed on stone millstones, and the resulting paste is well mixed and heated to a temperature of no more than 27 degrees. Then a traditional press or centrifuge is used, thus cold pressing the olive oil.
Oil can be distinguished by its fatty acid content. The smaller their number, the product is considered better and more expensive. The complexity of manufacturing is that these fruits, like many others, begin to oxidize in air, as well as when using very high temperatures. Therefore, in order to reduce this percentage, production should take place as quickly as possible.
Cold pressed olive oil is considered very useful and is most often produced mechanically. In its composition, such an oil can formally contain up to 1% fatty acids, but such an indicator is inappropriate for serious companies. The most famous manufacturers tend to eliminate or reduce the presence of this component altogether.
This factor is due to the fact that the reaction begins to occur immediately at the time of removal of the fruit. The closer the press is, the better the final product is.
Sunflower
To obtain oil, you must use fresh seeds. Quality, first of all, will depend on the condition of the source material. Seeds must be oilseeds with a moisture content of no more than 6%, otherwise the product will turn out to be too watery. A significant role is played by the degree of maturation, as well as the heat and light received during the growing process.
Cold pressed is the most useful, it retains all the trace elements necessary for the body.
It contains the following vitamins:
- A (improves vision well);
- D (provides the exchange and absorption of calcium);
- E (helps maintain youth, health, and is also considered a natural antioxidant);
- K (ensures the correct operation of the system responsible for blood clotting).
Such a product improves the functioning of the liver and digestive system, fights early aging and strengthens the immune system. Its harm lies only in its high calorie content, therefore it is not customary to consume oil in large quantities.
Linen
Cold-pressed linseed oil is recommended for use in food, as well as in folk medicine and cosmetology. Its composition is simply unique and contains such as Omega-3 and Omega-6. Before buying such a product, you should consult your doctor, as there are restrictions on the effects on health.
Beneficial features:
- the level of cholesterol in the blood is significantly reduced;
- cold-pressed oil is an excellent tool for the prevention of atherosclerosis, therefore it makes our life longer, as it prevents the development of strokes and heart attacks;
- in its composition it has almost all B vitamins, which have a positive effect on the nervous system;
- vitamin E contained in the oil is an indispensable antioxidant;
- the product forms and improves immunity;
- helps to absorb calcium;
- stabilizes the level of fats;
- useful for children
- restores the strength of athletes after a hard workout;
- recommended in the postoperative period;
- well heals cuts and wounds;
- stabilizes the endocrine system;
- helps in losing weight;
- used in diabetes mellitus, as it improves the absorption of insulin by the body.
castor
Cold-pressed castor oil is extracted from a light yellow hue that does not form a film and does not dry out. It has a number of valuable properties. Very often used in cosmetology, as it perfectly nourishes, moisturizes and protects the skin, smoothes wrinkles and prevents premature aging. It has excellent whitening properties, helps in the fight against freckles. Cold-pressed oil is also great for hair care, gives them shine and strengthens. Well stimulates the growth of eyelashes and eyebrows, an indispensable remedy for dandruff.
Used for deep cleansing of the gastrointestinal tract. It is considered the easiest assistant for weight loss, as well as for improving metabolism.
Grape
Cold pressed is characterized by significant antioxidant properties. The use of 1 tbsp. l. of this remedy covers the daily requirement for vitamin E. The extract is extracted from the bones of the fetus. Since they contain a large amount of chlorophyll, the final product has a greenish tint. Due to the presence in the composition of this component, when used, damaged tissues and mucous membranes heal, and also has a bactericidal effect.
The oil is very light and pleasant in taste, practically odorless. It is quickly absorbed into the skin and has a beneficial effect on it, for which it is often used in cosmetology. It is also important for medical purposes for the prevention of female and male problems in the genital area and oncology. Great for boosting immunity and overall health.
Can you fry?
Many are wondering if it is allowed to cook food using first cold pressed oil? Such an action, of course, is permissible, but at this moment the ingredient loses its unique taste and aroma, as well as its positive properties. It is too useful in its raw form for such a utilitarian application. Its bright taste is not combined with all products, for example, fish should not be cooked on it at all. Oils are great for frying good quality that have a neutral taste. This product undergoes special processing and is suitable for such purposes, without losing all its useful properties.
In order not to be disappointed after purchasing the selected gas station, it is necessary to take into account some factors. At the time of purchase, you need to pay attention not only to the expiration date, which is very small, but also to the packaging. Since the product is afraid of light and oxidizes quickly, it must be in a dark glass container and be hermetically sealed. Another important point is its storage at home under the same conditions. After the expiration date, it is better not to use it for food, because this may affect the state of health.
Cold-pressed oil is significantly more expensive than products that have been chemical treatment and processing, and therefore you can be sure that manufacturers monitor the quality of their goods and control the presence of fakes.
Vegetable oils have firmly entered human life. They are actively used in cooking and cosmetology. Some of their species are a curiosity for us. But there is a type of vegetable oil that is in almost every kitchen - this is sunflower oil.
Description and characteristics of the product
Sunflower oil obtained from the seeds of a flower from the Astrov family - sunflower. It is a very common agricultural oilseed throughout the world.
The sunflower was introduced to Europe from North America and was first grown as an ornamental plant and later for its seeds.
Did you know? In England, there is a patent dating back to 1716, which describes the process of obtaining sunflower oil. But the large-scale production of this product began thanks to the simple serf Count Sheremetyev Daniil Bokarev. It was he who in 1829 invented a way to make sunflower oil. In 1833, the first oil mill began operating in Russia, and its production quickly took on an industrial scale.
Now there are several ways to produce sunflower oil and, according to them, it is divided into refined and unrefined.
refined
This product is refined mainly to get rid of the specific taste and smell, so as not to interrupt the taste of the dish being prepared. It is also more suitable for frying and other heat treatments. 
Two refinement methods are currently in use:
- physical, in which adsorbents are used for cleaning;
- chemical - alkalis are used. The most common cleaning method, usually using a petroleum product, hexane.
The resulting product then undergoes deodorization, in which it is purified with water vapor under vacuum.
unrefined
The unrefined product is obtained from seeds without additional exposure, it can be obtained in several ways:
- cold pressing. The prepared material is pressed using temperatures up to +40 °C. This is the most useful product, which has retained all vitamins and nutrients, but is stored least of all;
- hot pressing. Plant material is heated up to +120 °C, at such temperatures more fat is released and this prolongs the shelf life, but some of the nutrients are destroyed. Such a product has a taste of roasted seeds and a darker color;
- extraction. A chemical solvent is used, which is then removed from the resulting product. This is the most productive and used way.
On a product that is produced only by pressing, put marks " Top grade", "First grade". The shelf life of a high-quality unrefined version is no more than two months. This oil has a darker yellow than refined. At the same time, as well as refined, it can be purified, but more sparingly. It is settled, filtered, hydrated and neutralized, while retaining useful substances. We study the composition
Any sunflower oil is almost 100% vegetable fats. Most useful composition in a high-oleic sunflower product, as it contains less Omega-6 and more Omega-3.
vitamins
This product in 100 g contains the following vitamins:
- - 41.08 mg;
- - 5.4 mcg.
Did you know? The content of youth vitamin (E) in unrefined cold-pressed sunflower oil is much higher than in olive oil (12.1 mg per 100 g).
Minerals
This product cannot boast of the presence of any mineral substances.
Fatty acid
The composition of 100 g of high oleic sunflower oil is represented by the following acids:
- monounsaturated fatty acids - 83.689 g;
- saturated fatty acids - 9.859 g;
- polyunsaturated fatty acids - 3.798 g.
- - 82.63 g;
- gadoleic (Omega-9) - 0.964 g;
- palmitoleic - 0.095 g.
- - 3.606 g;
- - 0.192 g.
Calorie content and nutritional value of the product
Sunflower oil, like any fat, belongs to high-calorie foods and contains 884 kcal per 100 g. Any sunflower oil is almost 100% vegetable fats. 
Contains polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) that are important for the body.
We study the benefits, harms and uses of refined oil
Refined oil has a longer shelf life (up to 18 months). It is used to produce margarine and other cooking oils, it is used in manufacturing for lubrication and insulation, for the manufacture of paint and varnish products, it can be used to fill kerosene lamps. It is used by the cosmetic (for the manufacture of soap, creams, etc.) and the pharmacological industry (therapeutic ointments).
In cooking
This option is great for culinary use. It does not smoke and does not foam when frying, it has a neutral taste and smell, it helps to preserve the taste of dishes. It is this oil that is used for deep-frying, frying, baking and any other heat treatment.
It is used for the manufacture of baby food, canning.
Important! When frying any fat, including vegetable origin, trans fats are formed, which contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, ischemia, various tumors, Alzheimer's disease and lead to hormonal disruptions. Therefore, fried foods are considered the most harmful. Most trans fats are found in recycled fats. Therefore, after each frying, it is recommended to change the oil.
For good health
Refined sunflower oil has a definite plus for health - it, like any other vegetable products, does not contain cholesterol and is more acceptable for people with high cholesterol than butter.
Vitamins in such a product are not stored, but there are fatty acids (Omega-3, Omega-6) that the body needs for normal functioning. Their ratio is the most optimal in high-oleic varieties.
If the content of vitamins E, A, D and others is written on the package with a refined product, then this is an additive of synthesized vitamins. True, these vitamins are still destroyed during heat treatment.
Based on the refined version, various therapeutic ointments are made, both in pharmacology and in traditional medicine.
Can it be used in cosmetology
The refined product no longer contains vitamin E, which is so useful and important for skin and hair care, but artificially synthesized vitamins (E, A) can be added to it. The vegetable fats contained in it soften and moisturize dry skin, add shine to the hair, so it can be added to home cosmetics if there is no unrefined one on hand. In addition, the shelf life of products prepared from it is longer, so the cosmetic industry uses it. Often used for maceration, as the cheapest and most stable option.
It is never used in its pure form, it is added to cosmetics up to 10%.
We study the benefits, harms and uses of unrefined oil
The most useful sunflower oil is made by cold pressing. It saves everything beneficial features and contains a shock dose of vitamin E, which is famous for its antioxidant properties. Fragrant, with the taste of sunflower seeds, the oil is perfect for many vegetable dishes, salads, marinades. Once opened, this oil will keep for only two months in the refrigerator. You can extend its shelf life by placing it in the freezer.
In cooking
This oil, during frying, strongly smokes and foams, while the dish cooked with it acquires its specific taste and smell. It also produces harmful trans fats.
But it is perfect for vegetable salads, marinades. They can be seasoned with cereals, soups, vegetable dishes. It goes well with salted herring and sauerkraut, boiled potatoes, salted and pickled mushrooms. This is a classic vinaigrette dressing.
Did you know? The sunflower got its name from the fact that its head with yellow petals turns after the sun. This behavior of plants is called heliotropism.
For good health
Vitamin E helps maintain youth, improves immunity, promotes reproductive functions, and reduces the likelihood of cancer. Together with the omega-fats that make up unrefined sunflower oil, it participates in metabolic processes, promotes growth, has a good effect on the cardiovascular system and the normal functioning of the central nervous system, and stimulates the liver. 
It is enough for a person to consume one or two tablespoons of this herbal product per day for the normal functioning of the body.
Application in cosmetology
They like to use this species for the manufacture of home cosmetics. It contains a lot of vitamin E, which rejuvenates the skin and smoothes wrinkles, as well as fatty acids, perfectly moisturizing and softening it. It is most rational to use it in disposable home masks.
Great for dry and chapped skin. In winter, the owners of such skin can be helped by a procedure of oil compresses: a napkin soaked in warm sunflower oil is placed on a cleansed face and washed off with a decoction of linden in half an hour.
Cracked areas of the skin (feet, elbows, lips, etc.) are lubricated for healing with a mixture of 100 g of this unrefined product and the contents of a bottle of vitamin A purchased at a pharmacy.
Face masks
You can also make the following face masks:
- for mature skin. Add 30 g to warmed 50 ml of cream fresh yeast, 1.5 st. l. honey, 2 tbsp. l. of this vegetable oil, mix thoroughly and beat. Apply to face, neck and décolleté for half an hour;
- for any skin type. In 3 st. l. with unrefined sunflower product add 1.5 tbsp. l. honey, 1 tbsp. l. oat flour, 50 ml of warm milk. Mix all components well and apply on cleansed face for 20 minutes;
- for oily skin . Mix 2 tbsp. l. unrefined oil with a pinch of fine sea salt, 1 tbsp. l. lemon juice, 1 tbsp. l. wheat flour. Keep on face and neck for 15 minutes.
Hair masks
Its use is excellent for the condition of the hair, use it in the following masks:
- for dry hair. Two yolks from chicken eggs rub with a teaspoon of calendula tincture, add 2 tbsp. l. unrefined oil. Rub everything and apply to your hair. Keep for 20-30 minutes under a plastic cap and wrapped, and then wash your hair with shampoo;
- for all hair types. Mix 4 tbsp. l. unrefined oil product, juice of one lemon and 3-4 drops of lavender ether and apply the resulting mass to the hair for 20-30 minutes. After washing your hair with shampoo.
Sunflower oil as a way to lose weight
This product is considered one of the simplest, most natural and affordable means to combat extra pounds. For weight loss, it is recommended to choose an unrefined cold-pressed version, since it contains more beneficial trace elements than others.
The product promotes weight loss due to the following properties:
- the fat contained in it does not settle on the walls of blood vessels, but, on the contrary, contributes to its removal;
- activates the gallbladder and gastrointestinal tract;
- the fatty acids contained in this product contribute to the burning, as well as the removal of excess body fat;
- linoleic acid during physical exertion helps to build and shape muscles;
- normalizes metabolism in the human body, improves the activity of the endocrine, cardiovascular and nervous systems.
Product selection rules
Almost every housewife in the kitchen can find sunflower oil in refined and unrefined form. This product is massively sold on the shelves of many stores in a wide range.
Did you know? The largest world producer of sunflower oil according to 2014 data is Ukraine (4400 thousand tons). Russia is slightly inferior to it - 4060 thousand tons. The rest of the top ten countries (Argentina, Turkey, France, etc.) lag far behind them in terms of production volumes.
What to pay attention to
At the time of buying quality product it is worth paying attention to the following points:
What not to pay attention to
When buying this product, you do not need to pay attention to the following inscriptions, as this is more of an advertising move:
- does not contain preservatives and dyes. In vegetable oil, chemical dyes or preservatives are almost never added. Such a product does not require their presence at all, since it already has a fairly long shelf life;
- first spin. The unrefined version is always made during the first pressing of sunflower seeds, and in the refined form it is obtained using chemical processing methods;
- contains vitamin E. Sunflower oil in any form contains this vitamin, but in a refined product it can be a small amount.
Harm and contraindications
Sunflower oil is a product of plant origin, so it cannot harm the human body. The only contraindication is individual intolerance to some of the elements that make up its composition in an unrefined form. It should be used in limited quantities due to its high calorie content. Overuse this product can also lead to exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases. Do not abuse it with obesity and a diseased pancreas. 
Important! It is advisable not to exceed daily allowance sunflower oils. It is no more than 30 g per day.
It is necessary to ensure that this food product was fresh, observe the storage conditions, and also monitor the expiration date.
Sunflower or olive: which one to prefer?
Benefits of sunflower oil:
- sold in any grocery store and more affordable;
- the refined version is great for heat treatment;
- the unrefined cold-pressed version contains much more vitamin E.
- includes more vitamin K;
- it has a more beneficial ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 for the human body;
- contains phytosterols that help lower cholesterol levels;
- higher shelf life of the unrefined version.
More about oils
Along with sunflower oil in cooking and other areas, a person quite actively uses others: corn, olive, grape.
corn
It is prepared from corn germ, which is 1/10 of the corn kernels. On the shelves of shops you can find only its refined version. It is suitable for heat treatment, has a neutral taste. It is used in medicine as a means of anti-sclerotic action.
olive
Olive oil is made from the fruits of the evergreen olive tree that grows in the subtropics. This tree was grown by the ancient Greeks, and now the main production of this product is concentrated in the Mediterranean. Even the unrefined version is stable and can be stored for up to a year.
Grape
It is obtained from grape seeds, mainly by hot extraction, the cold pressing method is very rare. Its production is usually concentrated in wineries. Used in cooking and cosmetics.
Sunflower vegetable oil is a useful component of any diet, including children's. In any form, it contains the omega-fats necessary for the normal functioning of the body, and unrefined it also contains a lot of vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties. In a word, this product is simply indispensable in every kitchen!
