11/16/2024
A Seed Oil Like No Other | High Oleic Sunflower Oil
Why Cold-Pressed, High Oleic Sunflower Oil is Not Your Average Seed Oil
When it comes to choosing healthy oils for your dog’s diet—or even your own—understanding the difference between various types of sunflower oil is crucial. Not all sunflower oils are created equal. The type of fat in the oil, its method of extraction, and its overall nutritional profile can drastically influence its effects on inflammation and overall health.
In particular, cold-pressed, high oleic sunflower oil has emerged as a healthier alternative to regular sunflower oil, largely because it is far less inflammatory. In this blog, we’ll explore why cold-pressed, high oleic sunflower oil is a better choice, highlighting the differences between it and regular sunflower oil, and how it benefits both humans and dogs by promoting heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting a well-balanced diet.
This is precisely why Albright's uses cold-pressed, high oleic sunflower oil in many of our recipes.
What is High Oleic Sunflower Oil?
Sunflower oil can vary greatly in its fatty acid composition. The two main types of sunflower oil are:
Regular Sunflower Oil: This is often called "linoleic sunflower oil" because it is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid. While omega-6 fats are essential for health, too much of them can promote inflammation, especially when they are not balanced with omega-3 fats.
High Oleic Sunflower Oil: This oil contains higher levels of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat (omega-9), which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. High oleic sunflower oil is significantly lower in omega-6 fats, making it a healthier option.
The key difference lies in the proportion of these fatty acids. While regular sunflower oil is around 65-75% omega-6 fatty acids, high oleic sunflower oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, typically comprising more than 80% oleic acid.
Why Cold-Pressed Matters
Cold pressing is a mechanical method of extracting oil from seeds or nuts without using heat or chemical solvents. This method preserves the natural nutrients and beneficial compounds found in the oil, resulting in a purer, less processed product. Cold-pressed oils retain more antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats compared to oils that undergo chemical extraction or are exposed to high heat, which can damage their nutritional integrity.
Cold-pressed, high oleic sunflower oil, therefore, not only has a healthier fat profile but also retains more of its natural antioxidant properties, further reducing the potential for inflammation.
1. Lower in Inflammatory Omega-6 Fatty Acids
The primary reason regular sunflower oil can be pro-inflammatory is due to its high levels of omega-6 fatty acids. While omega-6 is essential for proper bodily function, it’s the imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 that creates problems. When omega-6 is consumed in excess, it can lead to chronic inflammation, contributing to conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and skin problems.
High oleic sunflower oil, on the other hand, has a significantly lower omega-6 content, making it a far less inflammatory option. By reducing the intake of omega-6s through a switch to high oleic sunflower oil, you help restore a more balanced fatty acid profile, which can reduce inflammation.
2. Rich in Anti-Inflammatory Monounsaturated Fats
High oleic sunflower oil is predominantly composed of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat also found in olive oil. Monounsaturated fats are known for their heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory properties. Oleic acid helps reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) while maintaining or even increasing good cholesterol (HDL). More importantly, oleic acid has been shown to suppress inflammatory markers in the body, making it a beneficial fat for reducing overall inflammation.
For both humans and dogs, adding more monounsaturated fats like those found in high oleic sunflower oil can support better cardiovascular health, reduce joint pain, and improve skin health by lowering inflammation.
3. Preserved Nutrients and Antioxidants with Cold Pressing
The cold-pressing method used to extract high oleic sunflower oil ensures that more of the oil’s natural nutrients are preserved. These include:
Vitamin E: High oleic sunflower oil is a great source of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Vitamin E also supports skin health and can improve your dog’s coat.
Phytochemicals: These plant-based compounds have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Cold-pressed oils are more likely to retain beneficial phytochemicals that are often destroyed in high-heat extraction processes.
These preserved nutrients work synergistically with oleic acid to further reduce inflammation, making cold-pressed, high oleic sunflower oil an excellent choice for promoting overall health.
4. More Stable at High Temps
Another major advantage of high oleic sunflower oil is its stability at high temperatures. Regular sunflower oil, due to its high omega-6 content, becomes unstable when exposed to heat, leading to the production of harmful free radicals. These free radicals can increase oxidative stress in the body, leading to inflammation and cellular damage.
High oleic sunflower oil, thanks to its high monounsaturated fat content, is much more stable when heated. This makes it a safer option if you prefer lightly cooking your raw food, reducing the risk of introducing harmful compounds into your dog’s diet.
5. Beneficial for Skin and Coat Health
For dogs, especially senior dogs or those with inflammatory conditions, high oleic sunflower oil can be a great addition to their diet. Omega-9 fats like oleic acid are beneficial for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. These fats help reduce dryness, flakiness, and inflammation in the skin, making them ideal for dogs with sensitive or dry skin conditions.
Moreover, the high vitamin E content in cold-pressed, high oleic sunflower oil provides additional support for skin repair and coat health, helping your dog look and feel better.
Conclusion: Cold-Pressed, High Oleic Sunflower Oil – A Healthier, Less Inflammatory Option
When it comes to choosing the right oils for your dog—or yourself—cold-pressed, high oleic sunflower oil stands out as a superior, less inflammatory option compared to regular sunflower oil. With its high levels of heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory monounsaturated fats, preserved nutrients, and lower omega-6 content, it offers numerous benefits for reducing inflammation and promoting overall well-being.
Whether you’re looking to support joint health, improve skin and coat condition, or simply make healthier dietary choices, incorporating cold-pressed, high oleic sunflower oil into your routine is a smart step toward better health for both you and your dog.
