The Truth About Oils – Olive, Avocado & More! What’s Healthy and How to Use Them | Ask Dr. Gundry
Heart-Healthy: Avocado oil is high in monounsaturated fats, specifically oleic acid, which can help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol. This can contribute to a healthier heart.
High Smoke Point: Avocado oil has a high smoke point, which means it can withstand high temperatures without burning. This makes it a good choice for high-heat cooking methods like stir-frying or searing.
Neutral Flavor: Avocado oil has a very neutral flavor profile, making it suitable for various dishes without overpowering the taste of other ingredients.
The Not-So-Good:
Potential for Adulteration: A study by UC Davis found that nearly 70% of tested private label avocado oils were mixed with other oils or rancid [[invalid URL removed]]. This means you might not be getting pure avocado oil, potentially reducing the health benefits.
Cost: Avocado oil can be more expensive than some other cooking oils.
Things to Consider:
Choose Reputable Brands: Look for avocado oil from reputable brands with a proven track record of quality. Opt for those labeled “pure avocado oil” and ideally certified by a third-party organization.
Consider Other Options: Depending on your cooking needs and budget, other healthy oils like olive oil or canola oil might be suitable alternatives.
Overall:
Avocado oil can be a healthy and versatile addition to your kitchen when used correctly. However, be mindful of potential adulteration and choose high-quality brands.