Camelina Oil

Ideal Oil to Consume on A Ketogenic Diet

What is a ketogenic diet?

The ketogenic (keto) diet is a high-fat, very-low-carb diet. It involves drastically decreasing carbohydrate intake and replacing it with fat. The reduced carb intake puts the body into a metabolic state known as ketosis. This is characterised by efficient burning of fat for energy and elevated levels of ketone bodies in the blood, which can supply energy for the brain1,2. Ketogenic diet can cause substantial weight loss, reductions in blood sugar and insulin levels. Besides, the increased ketones from the ketogenic diet also provide numerous health benefits1,3.

When it comes to adapting to a diet which predominantly consists of fats, it is crucial to understand that not all fats or oils are created equal. Meats, fish, nuts, eggs and natural dairy are excellent sources of good fats to be included into a keto diet. Besides foods, one of the best ways to supplement daily unsaturated fat intake is by incorporating keto-friendly cooking oil into the home-cooked meals. Some cooking oils are better than others, and it is important that you fill your plate with the best option to reach your health goals successfully.

Camelina oil: A Perfect Keto Cooking Oil

Perfect Oil to Consume on A Ketogenic Diet

Camelina oil is one of the best keto-friendly cooking oils available in the market. It is an excellent source of health-promoting polyunsaturated fats (omega-3, 6), monounsaturated fatty acids (omega-9), vitamin E and plant sterols.

 

 

Unsaturated fatty acids

Camelina oil contains high omega-3s (up to 38%) and a healthy balanced proportion of omega-6s (2 : 1 omega-3s to omega-6s ratio), it’s an ideal source of polyunsaturated fatty acids. A healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 is associated with reduced risk of chronic inflammation, heart disease, stroke, autoimmune disorders and other inflammatory diseases. Modern day diets are extremely high in omega-6s, but significantly low in omega-3s. Selecting a cooking oil that is naturally high in omega-3s is vital for good health. Besides polyunsaturated fatty acids, camelina oil also contains monounsaturated fatty acids (e.g. omega-9s), which has been linked to good cholesterol level and better insulin resistance. The combination of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids could help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, reduce belly fat, combat inflammation and improve heart health. This is why camelina oil is a perfect oil for ketogenic diet.

Vitamin E

Camelina oil is also loaded with vitamin E which is well-known for its antioxidant activity. Vitamin E helps protect the oil from oxidation and rancidity. In the body, it helps protect cells against free radical damage. It also boosts the body’s immune system to fight invading bacteria and viruses.

Plant sterols

Camelina oil is a rich source of plant sterols, which can help lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

To reap the most of the benefits of camelina oil, it is best to drink it on its own – a spoonful every day or add it to smoothies and milkshakes, drizzle into salads, soups or yogurt, or cook with it. Camelina oil has a high smoke point and ideal for all cooking methods, including high temperature cooking. In short, camelina oil can be incorporated into any keto recipes with minimal efforts.

References:

1. Curr Atheroscler Rep.2003 Nov;5(6):476-83.

2. Metabolism.1983 Aug;32(8):769-76.

3. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids.2004 Mar;70(3):309-19.