The 8 Healthiest Cooking Oils and 3 You Should Avoid
Healthy oils play a vital role in supporting cell growth, protecting organs, and helping absorb essential vitamins A, D, E, and K. The recommended daily intake is 5-6 teaspoons for women and 6-7 teaspoons for men consuming 2,000 calories per day.
Best Oils for Health:
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
- Contains anti-inflammatory phenolic compounds
- Best for low-heat cooking, salad dressings, and drizzling
- May help protect against cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's
- Canola Oil
- Low in saturated fat (1g per tablespoon)
- High in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats
- Ideal for high-heat cooking due to higher smoke point
- Neutral flavor makes it versatile
- Flaxseed Oil
- Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Contains beneficial omega-6 fatty acids
- May help reduce inflammation and arthritis symptoms
- Best used unheated in smoothies and salads
- Avocado Oil
- Rich in monounsaturated fats
- High smoke point ideal for cooking
- Neutral flavor suitable for various dishes
- Maintains nutritional value at high temperatures
- Walnut Oil
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- May provide heart-protective benefits
- Supports cognitive function
- Best for salad dressings and finishing dishes
- Sesame Oil
- Contains anti-inflammatory properties
- High smoke point good for stir-frying
- Strong flavor enhances Asian dishes
- May help reduce cardiovascular disease risk
- Grapeseed Oil
- Low in saturated fat
- High in vitamin E
- High smoke point for versatile cooking
- Mild, neutral flavor
- Sunflower Oil
- High in unsaturated fats
- Excellent source of vitamin E
- May help lower LDL cholesterol
- AHA-approved for heart health
Oils to Limit or Avoid:
- Coconut Oil
- High in saturated fat (90%)
- May raise LDL cholesterol
- Use in moderation within saturated fat limits
- Partially Hydrogenated Oils
- Contains harmful trans fats
- Linked to cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's
- Should be completely avoided
- Palm Oil
- High in saturated fat
- Environmental concerns
- Not recommended for people with diabetes
- Better alternatives available