Sunflower Oil: useful properties and contraindications

Sunflower oil is a combination of useful microelements and vitamins. Unroasted sunflower seeds of special oil varieties are used for production. There is a high concentration of fats in the composition, so the preparation of the oil produces a product of the right consistency and quality.

Sunflower oil can be used in medicine, cosmetology and body care. An additional advantage of the product is that it is sold in different forms depending on the method of production, which provides a large selection of the product.

How sunflower oil is made

Sunflower oil is created industrially, but with special equipment you can also get a rich vitaminized product at home. The first option is popular, as it guarantees hygienic purity of the product, its cleaning from harmful impurities and food debris. Thorough processing is an opportunity to remove contaminants that not only make the product of poor quality, but can cause a lot of inconvenience to the buyer. The use of contaminated or unclean oil can cause pain in the stomach, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, heaviness in the liver area.

The technological process of sunflower oil production includes several steps.

1. Seeds are thoroughly cleaned from trash and husks, so that such impurities do not get into the final product.
2. Prepared kernels are sent to a special machine to obtain "crushed" raw materials.
3. The resulting raw material is sent to kilns to dry, after which it is pressed to squeeze out oil. The resulting oil slurry is then sent for sedimentation.
4. In the cake, any remaining oil is extracted by adding NEFRAS, which belongs to the category of extraction gasoline masses. The result is the creation of miscella and meal for addition to farm poultry and animal feeds.

Several types of oil are produced in the factory, differing in the way they are made and processed, so that you can expect to get the desired flavor properties of the product.

Types of sunflower oil

Sunflower oil is a versatile product used in cooking for frying, dressing salads, baking, making marinades and so on. To use it, you need to choose the kind that combines the benefits and safety.

Conventionally, sunflower oil is divided into several types, depending on the method of processing and preparation.

Hydrated

The product is cleaned by spraying hot water, so the oil looks attractive in appearance due to the maximum possible transparency. The lack of a pronounced odor and sediment in the bottle is the main positive quality that has made the product popular as a salad dressing.

Refined

After mechanical purification, the product undergoes additional processing, so it retains a light aroma and taste. Sunflower oil can be used for frying and making salads.

Unrefined

This sunflower oil is prepared using a coarse mechanical cleaning technique, so there is a pronounced smell and taste of the product. It is considered to be the most useful among the whole presented line of sunflower oils. But it is important to consider that it leaves a small residue in the bottle, so it is not recommended to consume all the oil - it is better to leave the residue intact.

Deodorized

After purification, the product is treated with hot steam under vacuum, so there is almost no color, aroma or taste. This version of the product is suitable for those who appreciate the rich vegetable fats, but do not like bright flavors.

Frozen

Freezing removes wax-like substances from the oil composition, thus extending the shelf life of the product. An important property is that due to the careful purification by freezing the turbidity of the product is eliminated, which makes it safe for consumption. As a result, sunflower oil has no pronounced color, odor or taste, so it can be classified as universal in the field of cooking.

Which oil is healthier: refined or unrefined?

Everyone has the right to choose for himself which oil is best for use, but the laboratory researches show that unrefined oil is more useful for the body. In its favor speak such characteristics as:

1. Lack of particularly thorough processing that destroys beneficial substances.
2. Rough mechanical cleaning - the key to the preservation of useful micro- and macronutrients.

Surprising and refined buttery aroma, thanks to which dishes can be complemented with special flavor notes. But unrefined product belongs to the most fastidious, because it is necessary to observe the temperature conditions (it is best to store the oil in a warm and dark place), exclude direct sunlight and refuse to use it after the expiration date. Another significant disadvantage is considered to be the short shelf life.

Refined oil is completely purified not only from impurities, but also from vitamins, so when you use it in cooking it is excluded from receiving health benefits. Oil of this kind also can not be stored in the cold, in direct sunlight and at the end of the shelf life. But refined oil has a longer shelf life, during which all the taste properties are preserved.

It is best to use unrefined sunflower oil in the diet, but if its pungent smell and taste discourage you, you can replace it with refined oil. By the way, the processed version is less caloric and has a milder effect on the body.

What is the difference between vegetable oil and sunflower oil?

Vegetable fat is the general name for a whole category of oils. Sunflower oils refer to vegetable oils. However, vegetable oil is not only extracted from sunflowers. The food industry produces many other varieties of vegetable oils: olive oil, sesame oil, peanut oil, palm oil, corn oil.

Vegetable oil is obtained by pressing the pulp of fruits or seeds. Depending on its consistency, it can be solid or liquid. The substance extracted from sunflower seeds also belongs to the group of liquid oils.

Sunflower oil is not much used in industry. It is most actively used in food processing and paint plants. It is also converted to solid form by hydrogenation. The solid product thus obtained is called "salomas". It is used to make soap and margarine.

The technology of sunflower oil extraction was invented in Russia. Of all vegetable fats, sunflower oil is the most intensively used in the food industry of the Russian Federation. It is counted among semi-dried fats of linoleic group. It contains vitamins A, E and D.

During its processing sunflower oil is first pressed on a press. To extract the remaining fats, the crushed seeds are extracted. This means that the substances are washed out of the seeds with a solvent. The remaining mass is sent to feed birds, fish and livestock.

Composition and calories

Sunflower oil is a natural vitamin complex that has a positive effect on the overall state of the body and human well-being. The chemical composition of the product is filled with various useful substances.

1. Vitamin A. Improves visual organs, strengthens the immune system.
2. Vitamin D. Promotes rapid absorption of calcium, thereby improving the condition of bones and teeth.
3. Vitamin F. Helps dissolve fatty tissue, thereby improving the condition of the skin.
4. Vitamin E. Prevents the development of cancer. Improves the condition of the body by removing toxins and waste.
5. Tocopherol. A natural antioxidant that removes toxins from the digestive system, so that it begins to work much better. It improves the condition of the hair, skin and nails.

Interesting! Sunflower oil contains Omega-3, 6, 9 fatty acids in a higher concentration than olive oil.

The caloric value of the product is high because of the concentration of a large amount of fats, and if we consider additional processing and the addition of chemical compounds to improve the composition, the figure increases several times.

Per 100 grams of product K/B/G/G: 900/0/99.8/0.2 respectively.

Given such a large caloric content, it is not recommended to use sunflower oil when losing weight, or the daily dose should be minimal to avoid oversaturation of the body and imbalance of calories.

What is sunflower oil good for?

Given the natural origin of sunflower oil, there are many healthful ingredients that can be found in it. They have a positive effect on the human body.

1. It reduces the level of harmful cholesterol, which is considered to be a good prevention of blood clots and blockages in the blood vessels.
2. There is a preventive effect on the heart muscle, which prevents the emergence of complex diseases.
3. The work of the brain is improved due to the stimulation of neural connections and production of new ones.
4. The product has a favorable effect on the central nervous system, so that the likelihood of the development of related diseases is excluded.

But there are additional positive properties separately for men, women, children and expectant mothers.

For women

Women's body - a complex mechanism in which changes occur much faster than in men. The first beneficial property of sunflower oil for women's bodies is to slow down the aging process of the skin. It also improves blood circulation in the pelvic area, which is considered a good prevention of "female" diseases. Strengthens the structure of hair and nails, which gives them a natural shine and strength.

For men

Scientists have proved that regular consumption of sunflower oil in the diet is an opportunity to improve male sexual health. Preventing prostatitis, improving potency and eliminating possible inflammation are the key benefits of sunflower seed oil.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a process of hormonal restructuring of the body, so it is important to consume different vitamins and minerals. Sunflower oil copes well with such a task. Additionally, it will not be superfluous to consider the fact that the product has a mild laxative effect, so that the pregnant woman will not suffer from constipation, with which expectant mothers often have to deal. The condition of hair and nails is improved, so the period of pregnancy will not cause a deterioration in appearance.

For children

Sunflower oil is rich in natural antioxidants and vitamins, but children's bodies may react negatively to such a saturated product, so it is better to start with a carefully purified refined or frozen kind. Squeeze of sunflower seeds improves the gastrointestinal tract, contributes to the prevention of parasites, and strengthens the immune system.

The useful properties of sunflower oil for losing weight

The process of losing weight - it is not only the regulation of the diet and hard physical activity, but also the need to enrich the body with useful substances and vitamins. The complex of useful micro- and macronutrients helps to prevent problems related to the deterioration of the skin, hair and nails. The main mistake when losing weight is considered to be the complete elimination of fats from the diet. This is an extremely wrong way of eating, because in the absence of saturated foods the reproductive system in women is disturbed, men feel problems with potency, in addition the functioning of internal organs deteriorates, because they do not get valuable substances for normal work.

Sunflower oil when losing weight is not just possible but necessary, but only in the first half of the day and in small amounts.

1. Vegetable fats do not cause the accumulation of cholesterol, because there are enzymes that promote its complete removal.
2. The work of the gallbladder and liver is improved.
3. Unsaturated fats, represented in the form of vitamin F in the composition of sunflower oil, are auxiliary substances for the breakdown of fat deposits.
4. Linoleic acid in sunflower oil strengthens muscle structure, so the benefits are guaranteed not only to those who lose weight, but also to athletes.
5. Your metabolism is restored, which removes toxins and impurities, and all the food you eat will be digested more quickly without "stagnating" in your body.

But reasonableness and moderation of intake is the basis for obtaining the benefits of sunflower oil for weight loss.

Sunflower Oil in Medicine

A detailed consideration of the composition of sunflower oil has become the main reason for its use in medicine to normalize the work of internal organs, the prevention of various diseases and inflammatory processes. Clinical trials have shown that the product has its positive and negative sides in the presence of certain medical problems. A detailed study is an opportunity to avoid adverse reactions of the body and get the desired restorative effect.

In diabetes mellitus.

Diabetes mellitus comes in two types: the first (non-insulin) and the second (insulin). If in the case of the first type of diabetes it is allowed to use products of different chemical composition, because the main restriction is only in carbohydrates, which you should try to eliminate from the diet as much as possible, the second type is a problem of medical nature, so a careful study of the features is required.

Sunflower oil is a key source of saturated fat for the diabetic, so it must be present in the diet. But the daily norm is the main rule to be adhered to. The positive properties of sunflower oil in diabetes are enough.

1. It eliminates dryness and flabby skin.
2. Normalizes the work of the digestive system.
3. Vascular walls are strengthened, so blood clots and stagnation are prevented.

When you exceed the allowable daily allowance for type 2 diabetes can be a problem.

1. Disorders of the gallbladder and liver.
2. Pathological changes in the gastrointestinal tract appear.
3. Increases the likelihood of gaining excess weight, given that the body is already working under stress due to constant insulin injections.

Important! The allowable daily rate is calculated individually in consultation with the doctor.

The glycemic index of sunflower oil - 0 units, because it does not contain carbohydrates.

For pancreatitis

In pancreatitis for the preparation of salads and various "raw" dressings are well suited unrefined sunflower oil due to a high concentration of useful substances. And for the preparation of mashed potatoes or vegetables, refined oil is suitable, because it is purified from chemical impurities and has a gentle effect on the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract. But the daily rate and compliance with the rules of admission - a guarantee of a favorable effect on the inflamed pancreas.

With gastritis

Like any other product of vegetable origin, sunflower oil is an indispensable combination of micro- and macroelements for the normal functioning of internal organs. Even in the presence of inflammatory processes in the stomach (gastritis and ulcers) it is recommended to stick to the daily rate of consumption of sunflower oil, but in no case can it be completely excluded. In the composition of sunflower oil there are antioxidants and anti-inflammatory enzymes that "soothe" the walls of the stomach, eliminating pain and discomfort.

For the intestines

The intestines are more likely to develop harmful germs and bacteria that spread through the body, causing problems such as impaired digestion, upsetting or constipation. Due to the oily structure of the pressed sunflower seeds has a positive effect on the intestines, strengthening their walls, making them more elastic.

For constipation

A slight laxative effect of sunflower oil helps to eliminate constipation. But you should not abuse this method, lest you get a backlash in the form of gastrointestinal upset. Doctors recommend using a combination of water and a few drops of sunflower oil. This allows the substance to dissolve into molecules in a warm environment and more easily "envelop" the intestines, removing all organic waste products from it.

Important! The product has proven itself in the prevention and treatment of constipation in pregnancy.

With gout

Gout is a metabolic disease that occurs due to a disorder of purine metabolism in the body. As a rule, the problem is chronic and cannot be cured, but if you follow the doctor's advice, you can slow down or stop the deforming process altogether.

Sunflower oil has a positive effect on the body in this orthopedic disease, because the calcium present and natural antioxidants can strengthen the bone system, remove excess purine and run the regeneration of cartilage and joint tissue. Of course, it is possible to achieve the desired effect only in the case of a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Recipes of folk medicine based on sunflower oil

Modern pharmaceutical companies spend a lot of money on advertising, just to attract people to buy their chemicals. However, the knowledgeable and learned by centuries of experience do not hurry to go to the pharmacy for expensive pills, because there is sunflower oil at hand.

This remedy has long been used to treat various organs (intestines, liver, stomach, gallbladder), to strengthen teeth, to prevent cancer. The oil also helps in the treatment of upper respiratory tract diseases, headaches, respiratory ailments.

For therapeutic purposes must be used unrefined purified oil, and only the highest grade. It should be a light shade, subtle flavor and pleasant taste.

In its pure form the oil is used in the procedure "sucking". You should put in your mouth a tablespoon of fresh oil and suck it like a lollipop. Spit out the product and look - if whitened, then the effect is achieved.

Folk recipes with sunflower oil
More often than not, the oil is the base for preparing tinctures and decoctions, which allows you to strengthen its therapeutic effect.

1. Combine 5 tablespoons of oil with 2 tablespoons of dried rosemary herb. The mixture should be simmered (but not boiled), then insist one day in a dark place. The resulting remedy can rub sore joints and back, to massage.
2. In a half-liter jar, pour the inflorescences of garden yolkophyllum about one-third, add oil to the edge and insist a couple of weeks. This is an excellent remedy for rheumatism and muscle aches.
3. Combine half a liter of vodka, 3-4 hot peppers and infuse for a couple of weeks. To the resulting mixture add a mug of sunflower oil. The burning mixture perfectly warms the muscles and joints, produces an anti-inflammatory and warming effect, helps to fight neuralgia.
4. Take 1 spoon each of flour, mustard powder, honey and sunflower oil. Add half a tablespoon of vodka and heat the mixture in a water bath. Put the resulting "dough" on a clean cloth and apply to the chest to treat a cough.
5. Take 2 parts oil and combine with 1 part beeswax. Boil the mixture and cool it to a comfortable warm temperature. The resulting ointment can be smeared on wounds and blisters for accelerated skin regeneration. And if the oil is combined with another bee product propolis and also heated in a water bath, you can lubricate sore joints and relieve fatigue after a day of work. Such remedies can be stored for about 3 months.

That's how a simple product that is in every home can help improve health without having to resort to pills.

Sunflower Oil in Cosmetology

Cosmetology is another branch of the use of rich sunflower oil. It is used to make balms, masks for dry and non-fat hair, to improve the skin of the face due to its oily, oily structure. But given the difficulties in washing the oil, it can not be used alone, but only as a supplement to the main composition of the mask, scrub or cream.

For the face

During winter and the off-season, the skin lacks vitamins and minerals, so the color deteriorates, redness appears, as well as roughness, which is difficult to camouflage with tonal creams. For dry and combination skin a mask with the addition of sunflower oil is suitable, and if there are zoned inflammations, it is allowed to use the product in the raw form for rubbing.

Sunflower oil also helps in the fight against age-related changes: wrinkles, sagging and sagging skin. Regular use of masks and creams with sunflower oil is an opportunity not only to eliminate age-related problems, but also to prevent their appearance.

But it is necessary to apply the remedy very carefully, because the oiliness can do harm, for example, if you apply the extract in large quantities without observing the regularity and dosage.

Important! If an allergic reaction occurs, you should immediately consult with specialists.

For hair

Beautiful, lush and healthy hair - it is the dream of every girl, but you can count on such luxury only with the right care. Masks, scrubs, tonics, conditioners and nourishing oils - the main helpers of the modern woman who wants to cure the hair, make them beautiful and strong. Sunflower oil is actively used to prepare home remedies for hair care.

1. It eliminates dry skin, so it prevents the appearance of dandruff.
2. The lack of nutrients in hair follicles is compensated.
3. Hair growth is enhanced due to the direct effect on the hair follicles and improved blood circulation.
4. The likelihood of electrifying hair when wearing woolen clothing is reduced.
5. Hair becomes soft, pleasant and manageable, so you can style it much faster.
6. Gains shine and rich color.
7. Hair is protected from temperature effects, so when styling with a curler or iron, they are not overheated, and the finished curls will hold their shape for a long time.

But sunflower oil should not be abused, as the excess can cause an increase in greasiness of the scalp and hair. Moderation and literacy of intake will allow you to get the benefits without adverse reactions.

Can we give dogs sunflower oil?

Just like people, dogs need constant supplies of vitamins and minerals, so they must have a balanced diet of animal or vegetable fats. Sunflower oil is a must in the diet of your four-legged friend. But it should not be abused, because an excessive amount can lead to problems with the gastrointestinal tract, gallbladder and liver.

Allowed no more than 1 teaspoon once every 2 days. But only refined oil of cold extraction is allowed, because in this way all the nutrients are preserved and toxins are removed.

Sunflower seed oil can be given to the dog only as an additive to the main food, that is, it can be added to soup, porridge, food.

How to choose and where to store sunflower oil

Sunflower oil will retain its usefulness only if properly stored. But initially you need to choose a quality product, which will have only positive effects on the human body.

There are separate rules for selecting refined and unrefined sunflower oil, so attention to detail is important.

Specialists distinguish the criteria for selecting unrefined sunflower oil.

1. The light color is a sign of quality, but if the oil is dark, it indicates the use of overcooked seeds.
2. Slight residue is acceptable.
3. A pleasant smell without a hint of bitterness is an indicator of proper processing.
4. There should be a viscosity and homogeneity of the substance.

But in the store it is difficult to check the smell and texture of the product, so it is best to buy in the markets, where you can also try.

Criteria for selecting refined oil:

1. Light shade.
2. No sediment or flakes.
3. Without traces of antioxidants in the composition.
4. Grade markings. It is best to give preference to premium or premium oil.

Extend the shelf life of sunflower oil, regardless of its type, by following the recommendations.

1. Observance of the temperature storage mode indicated on the package is a possibility to avoid spoiling of the product.
2. It is best to keep the oil in its original packaging, that is, it should not be poured into other containers, because they can break the chemical composition of the product.
3. The main enemy of sunflower oil is direct ultraviolet rays, so it is important to choose a dark but warm place for storage.

Proper storage and use of sunflower oil is an opportunity to extend its shelf life while fully preserving its properties.

Can you fry with unrefined oil?

Given the high concentration of useful micro- and macronutrients in the composition of unrefined oil, it would seem that it is ideal for frying. But in fact, the product has proven itself best as a salad dressing, making marinades, and for frying it is preferable to use refined.

Why is unrefined oil not suitable for frying? When exposed to high temperatures, it begins to burn and create a characteristic smell, there is foam, which settles on the prepared products. And also splashing in different directions is not only uncomfortable, but also dangerous, as red-hot oil can easily leave a burn.

What's a good substitute for sunflower oil when frying?

Sunflower oil when heated changes its molecular structure, so not everyone can consume products prepared on this basis without harm to the body. And when losing weight, foods fried in sunflower oil can not be attributed to the usefulness, so a reasonable alternative - a sure way to a beautiful figure and good health. Other types of vegetable oils are suitable for frying.

1. Olive oil, which contains vegetable fats, B vitamins (including B9, B12). But it is important to observe the temperature regime, as you should not allow the substance to boil.
2. You can use butter or margarine, but given the ability of such a product to burn when overheated, you can not always do without unpleasant consequences.
3. Among the newfangled culinary trends linseed and sesame oil is gaining popularity, but due to its high cost not everyone can afford such a pleasure.

Why sunflower oil foams when fried

A frequent problem that one has to deal with when using sunflower oil for frying is the foaming. Why does it happen? As a rule, this phenomenon can be encountered when using unrefined oil (it is not suitable for frying).

Important: Often unrefined oil that is not carefully filtered is also covered with foam. This means that the manufacturer is trying to make the oil last longer and is adding antioxidants!

How to fix the problem? It is important not to overheat the oil, since heating it to boiling temperature makes it foamy. That's why it's important to keep the heat to a medium level and cook the product with the lid on. This will avoid unnecessary splashing, the dish will be heated evenly and fried without foam.

How to check the sunflower oil for naturalness

Often unscrupulous manufacturers or sellers dilute sunflower oil, due to which it loses its valuable naturalness. Such a product not only does not bring benefits, but can also cause adverse reactions of the body: disorders, constipation, exacerbation of gastritis, ulcers or pancreatitis. Therefore, it is recommended to take into account the rules of verification of naturalness.

1. The oil should not be very dark or almost colorless. Dark is a sign that the seeds were overcooked or cooked incorrectly, but colorless indicates a diluted formulation, which, in addition to the oil, contains water or carcinogens. Of course, the technology of oil production influences the hue.
2. The smell should not be harsh or acrid, because it is a sign of using low-quality raw materials or violations in the production process. But unrefined oil is characterized by a slightly spicy and rich odor, but the frozen and refined product may have no aroma at all.
3. The taste is also determined by the method of production, but in any case no bitterness is allowed. You should also be alert if the product does not taste at all, as this is a sign of diluted composition.

Harm and contraindications

Like any other product, sunflower oil has its own contraindications, which must be taken into account to avoid health problems in the future. Among the main contraindications are:

1. Diseases of the gallbladder and liver.
2. Allergic reactions to the product.
3. Problems with the vascular system.
4. Excessive use can turn into gaining excess weight, so you need to control the amount of oil.
5. With high sugar take sunflower oil is allowed only after consultation with the attending doctor.
6. Individual intolerance to the body.
7. Diseases of the digestive system.

Each body is individual, so it is important to carefully monitor its reactions when consuming sunflower oil in any form. Compliance with the daily rate and the rules of both storage and preparation is an opportunity to avoid adverse reactions.

Interesting facts about sunflower oil

The production and use of sunflower oil is not without interesting facts that will allow you to look at this familiar culinary product in a different way.

1. Industrial processing of sunflower seeds into oil began only in the 19th century thanks to the discovery of serf Daniil Semenovich Bokarev.
2. Although at one time sunflower was introduced to the country from Holland, it is still native to North America, where breeders are still working on selecting new varieties.
3. The useful properties of sunflower oil were first appreciated by the Indians who lived on the territory of modern Mexico.
4. Studies have shown that sunflower was earlier adapted to home cultivation than wheat.

Sunflower oil, regardless of the method of processing and purification is a useful product for every person. Considering the individual characteristics of the body, compliance with the rules of choice, storage and use is an opportunity to prevent the emergence of various diseases, as well as to improve your appearance.

Photo of sunflower oil