We have all heard about the benefits of olive oil, but sunflower oil also has great benefits for our organism. That is why we are going to find out a little more about this great ally in our daily cooking. An oil that can provide us with many more things than we think. The first point to bear in mind is that in order to benefit from all the properties of sunflower oil, it is important that it is of high quality. Sunflower oil is extracted from the sunflower seed and is one of the healthiest oils for consumption thanks to its nutritional values. Due to its emollient properties, it is also an important ingredient in the cosmetics industry.
Composition of sunflower oil
Before we dive deeper into the benefits of sunflower oil, let’s take a closer look at its composition.
The main element is linoleic acid, an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid rich in omega-6. In fact, sunflower oil is the richest of all oils in omega 6. Other important components in the formulation of sunflower oil are oleic acid (omega 9) and palmitic acid, the main saturated fatty acid we humans have.
In addition to these essential oils, we owe other benefits of sunflower oil to lecithin, carotenoids, tocopherols and a large proportion of vitamins A, D and E.
The 5 benefits of sunflower oil
The benefits of sunflower oil are many and cover different areas. Let’s take a look at its surprising advantages for skin, hair and health.
Benefits of sunflower oil
Although sunflower oil may be high in fat, it is gaining popularity as the perfect balance of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
1. Cardiovascular benefits
Sunflower oil is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which is of utmost importance in the proper functioning of our heart. It is also beneficial for the cardiovascular system as it contains large amounts of choline and phenolic acid. It can contain up to 80% monounsaturated fats, making it one of the most beneficial oils for health and reducing the possibility of suffering from cardiovascular diseases.
In addition, vitamin E acts to protect our cells and helps our organs to function properly.
2. Contributes to lowering cholesterol
In other oils with more saturated fats, the body is unable to break down this substance during digestion and nutrient absorption. As a result, this fat is transported to different parts of the body and deposited, generating what is known as LDL cholesterol or ‘bad cholesterol’.
Sunflower oil is low in saturated fat and contains phytosterols, a component that blocks the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines while protecting the heart. In this way, it helps reduce total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood.
3. It is antioxidant, repairs the body and helps cell regeneration.
Another of the benefits of sunflower oil is its high vitamin E content, a great antioxidant that protects against free radicals that cause cancer by damaging our cells and immune system. In the same vein, it is important to highlight its protective role against UVA rays.
On the other hand, sunflower oil has many proteins that are vital for the construction and repair of tissues.
4. Great ally of the skin
It has great emollient properties that help the skin to retain moisture. It also acts as a protective film, reducing the likelihood of infections or pimples by 14%. It is also rich in vitamins A, C and D and in carotenoids and waxes that are effective against acne. As a light, non-greasy oil, it is absorbed by the skin without clogging pores. It is now that vitamin E again acts as an antioxidant and gets rid of pimple-causing bacteria.
It is also a great ally for dry skin as it improves the skin’s ability to retain moisture. When combined with quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil it is effective in removing dead skin cells and impurities.
For sensitive skin, it can be used as a make-up remover as it does not irritate or damage the dermis.
5. Prevents frizz and softens the hair
Because sunflower oil has a light texture, it softens and gives hair a soft, delicate shine, while combating frizz, dryness and breakage. Sunflower seed oil is rich in gamma alpha linolenic acid (GLA). This component is vital to prevent hair thinning, being used for the treatment of hair loss. And you know what’s best of all? It doesn’t smell!
