Canola oil contains fat, vitamin E, and vitamin K, as per Nutrition and You. According to Poliquin Group, fats promote better body composition. In anatomy and physiology, fats comprise the external layer of the cells; as per the publication, the cells’ lipid layer is made up of omega-3 fats, making them more insulin-sensitive, supportive of the metabolic process, and anti-inflammatory. Along with insulation against cold, fats also contribute to muscle gain, since it promotes hormone balance and recovery after a strenuous workout. Also, increasing fat in the diet improves the production of genes that control hormone balance in the body.
Meanwhile, vitamin E is good for the skin. It makes the skin radiant and protected from the hazardous effects of ultra-violet rays. Along with vitamins A and C, vitamin E also acts as an antioxidant. Thus, the vitamin helps the body get rid of unwanted and toxic substances, such as free radicals, which often lead to cancer. On the other hand, vitamin K plays a role in wound healing through blood clotting mechanisms.
Canola Oil and Cardiovascular Health
Canola oil also promotes heart health. According to Authority Nutrition, the oil reduces the amount of low-density lipoproteins or bad cholesterol, as well as triglycerides by up to 25 percent. To add, it does not have a pronounced effect on high-density lipoproteins of good cholesterol. Since the amount of cholesterol stands as one of the risk factors for heart disease, lowering its amounts may be associated with heart health. However, more studies are yet to be done to for further evidence.
Canola Oil and Energy
Canola Oil also boosts a person’s energy level. According to Organic Facts, the oil boosts the metabolic process with the low cholesterol and high antioxidant levels. As per the publication, metabolism at a normal rate prevents the body from being sluggish and it also improves circulation, which means the heart’s workload is also reduced.
Canola oil can be added to various meal recipes, such as Winter Vegetable Pork Ragout. According to Canola Info, the ingredients include four tablespoons of canola oil (divided 60mL), a cup of chopped onion, two cloves of garlic (minced), one pork tenderloin or boneless pork (cut into one-inch cubes), three tablespoon all-purpose flour, four cups of reduced-sodium chicken stock, half cup of dry white wine, a cup of peeled and chopped carrots, a cup of peeled and chopped rutabaga (turnip) cubes, a cup of peeled and chopped parsnip, a large potato (peeled, diced), a teaspoon of dried thyme leaves and ground sage, half teaspoon salt, half teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, chopped green onions, and fresh rosemary for garnish.
To prepare, as per the publication, two tablespoons of canola oil are heated in a large stock pot over medium heat. Next, onions and garlic are sautéed for about five minutes. Then, they are removed with spoon and are set aside. After that, two tablespoons of canola oil are added over medium-high heat while cubed pork is added until it becomes brown in color. Once done, then it is removed and is set aside.
For the pan juices, flour is whisked, until the mixture becomes golden in color. Then, stock and wine are added and whisked well to combine. After that, garlic, onions, and pork are returned. Once done, the vegetables, sage, thyme, pepper, and salt are added and are brought to a boil. The heat is reduced and the food is simmered for about 30 minutes or until the vegetables become tender. Then, onion and rosemary are added for garnish. As per the publication, leftover pork or turkey can be used instead of a fresh one.
Canola oil has its own set of health benefits. Thus, its addition to various meal recipes will promote a person’s total health and well-being.
