Eating Ideas

Don't know your olive oil from your hemp seed oil? Get clued
up with this essential guide.

Oils have been praised for centuries for their health giving properties; many studies attribute the longevity and youthfulness of Mediterranean population with their consumption. But with so many types out there it can be confusing which to choose. Here's what to look for.

Coconut Oil
METABOLISM BOOSTING
Health Benefits: At one point, coconut received a huge amount of bad press due to the high levels of saturated fats. However, rather than containing the unhealthy long chain fatty acids, the oil contains medium chain fatty acids, which, rather than circulating in the bloodstream travel straight to the liver where they are used for energy. This has been proved to be hugely helpful in weight-loss. Also being rich in lauric acid it is great for the immune system.

Rice Bran Oil
HEART PROTECTING
Health Benefits: With high smoke point and delicate flavour, rice bran oil has been found to help reduce cholesterol and protect against heart disease. It is also naturally high in vitamin E - a vital antioxidant that may provide extra protection against cancer, as well as impressive tool in the fight against premature ageing. In Japan women rub the oil on their face to keep their skin smooth.

Flaxseed Oil
OMEGA 3 RICH

Health Benefits: Also referred to as linseed oil, flaxseed oil is one of the richest plant-based sources of omega 3 essential fatty acids in the form of alpha-linolenic-acid (ALA). As well as helping to boost concentration and memory, ALAs have also been found to reduce inflammation associated with disorders such as arthritis as well as helping to protect bones. They have also been found to lower cholesterol as well as protecting against blood clots, which could lead to heart attacks or strokes.

Olive Oil
CHOLESTEROL LOWERING

Health Benefits: Well known for its health-promoting properties in the Mediterranean, this type of oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids, which may be able to help the body regulate levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, while raising HDL (good) levels to protect against problems such as heart disease and strokes.

Pumpkin Seed Oil
HIGH NUTRIENT CONTENT

Health Benefits: Derived from the Styrian pumpkin, this oil contains nutrients including magnesium, calcium, and vitamins such as A, C, E and K. Research has shown it to be beneficial in protecting against prostate problems. It may also be useful in the treatment of urinary tract infections due to its high concentration of essential fatty acids.

Hemp Seed Oil
SUPERFOOD QUALITIES
Health Benefits: The hemp seed is often regarded as a superfood...
Health Benefits: The hemp seed is often regarded as a superfood in its own right because it can make so many impressive nutritional claims. Firstly, it carries an ideal balance of omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids, which is thought to be for keeping skin in optimum conditions. Secondly, it is a rich source of gamma linolenic acid (GLA), which relieves the symptoms of PMT. Thirdly, it contains all eight essential amino acids necessary for human life.

Sesame Seed Oil
EFFECTIVE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY

Health Benefits: A mildly-flavoured oil that is resistant to rancidity, this is an especially rich source of copper, an anti-inflammatory which has been found to be effective in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. It is also rich in magnesium, which can help with menopause symptoms.