Consuming a range of different healthy cold-pressed kitchen oils can be valuable to cardiovascular health. There are three main ways in which good oils can benefit heart health:
- A mixture of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats can help to lower cholesterol by reducing the bad cholesterols LDL and VLDL. They promote certain enzymes that stimulate bile production which aids digestion and assists in the breakdown and removal of fats.
- Antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavonoids can assist in healthy blood pressure. Oxidative stress contributes to plaque formation in arteries (atherosclerotic plaques), which cause the arteries to stiffen and blood pressure to increase, this can dangerously result in heart failure. Polyphenols can reduce the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and soften stiffened arteries, improving their integrity and flexibility, which will reduce blood pressure.
- Including plenty of good fats in your diet may assist in weight management and reduce the amount of visceral fat surrounding and putting strain on your internal organs including your heart.