Benefits of Rice Bran Oil

Rice bran oil is extracted from the germ and inner husk of rice. It is known for its use in cooking techniques that involve high temperatures, such as stir frying and deep frying. This is because the oil remains stable at relatively high temperatures.

As a result, there is no risk of overheating and burning the food, and it can be cooked all the way through. The oil gives a nutty flavor, an ideal color, and a desirable texture to different fried foods. Apart from being flavorful, the oil is a storehouse of vitamins, antioxidants, and many other nutrients.

The beneficial properties of rice bran oil come from its two important natural antioxidants, oryzanol and tocotrienol. Oryzanol is responsible for reducing the levels of 'bad cholesterol' (LDL) without affecting the levels of 'good cholesterol' (HDL) in blood.

It also reduces cholesterol absorption. Apart from this, it has the ability to treat early atherosclerosis, and is useful to deal with the symptoms of menopause.

Rice bran oil contains about 500 ppm of tocotrienol, which is known to be a potent antioxidant with anti-cancer properties. It eliminates toxins in the liver, and prevents liver tumors.

Foods cooked with this oil, taste better, and have a good flavor and palatability. The oil does not significantly increase the calories of the cooked food item. The reason behind this is the light viscosity of the oil which makes oil absorption 20% less than other cooking oil.

Moreover, components such as saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats are present in a balanced amount. This helps to improve serum cholesterol levels, and reduces the risk of various cardiovascular diseases. Also, the oil is suitable for people allergic to certain cooking oils.

The oil is believed to keep the skin smooth and supple. Cosmetic products like sunscreens, hair conditioners, lipsticks, and nail polish contain this oil as one of their active ingredients.

It is a rich source of insoluble fiber. This group of fiber does not undergo metabolism by intestinal enzymes. This causes the production of larger stool size, which in turn, dilutes carcinogens, and reduces the risk of colon cancer.

The oil also contains phytonutrients, which have been found to be beneficial in treating medical conditions like kidney stones, heart diseases, fatty liver, hyperlipidemia, and cancer.

Rice bran oil offers several advantages over other cooking oils, and is considered to be a healthy choice for the whole family.