"Oil" is a daily necessity in people's diets, so its scientific use is crucial for human health. Improper use, if accumulated over time, may even lead to cancer.
Experts have offered practical advice on common misconceptions regarding the use of cooking oil in daily life, as follows:
Misconception 1: High-temperature stir-frying
Many people prefer to stir-fry at high temperatures, waiting until the oil in the wok smokes before adding ingredients. This practice is unscientific. High-temperature oil not only destroys the nutritional value of food but also produces peroxides and carcinogenic substances. It is recommended to heat the pan first, then add the oil, and begin cooking without waiting for the oil to smoke.
Misconception 2: Avoiding plant-based oils or animal fats
Without oil, the body can experience deficiencies in vitamins and essential fatty acids, affecting overall health. It is also incorrect to insist on only consuming plant-based oils and avoiding animal fats. In appropriate amounts, animal fats (saturated fatty acids) are beneficial to the human body.
Misconception 3: Using only a single type of oil long-term
Currently, it is difficult for most families to use different oils for different dishes. However, it is best to alternate between several oils or switch to a different oil after a period of time, as it is rare for a single oil to meet all the body's lipid needs.
Misconception 4: No difference in oil use for people with abnormal blood lipids or abnormal body weight
For individuals with abnormal blood lipids or abnormal body weight, the emphasis is on choosing plant oils high in monounsaturated fatty acids. The amount of oil used should also be controlled. For people with normal blood lipids and body weight, the total daily oil intake should not exceed 25 grams, with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids each accounting for about half. For the elderly, individuals with abnormal blood lipids, obese individuals, those with obesity-related diseases, or those with a family history of obesity, their daily oil intake per person should be even lower, potentially reduced to 20 grams.