Tag: Natural fats

Most fats and oils found in nature are actually mixed triglycerides, not the simpler, more uniform versions that can be created in a lab. A mixed triglyceride is a type of lipid in which one glycerol molecule is bonded to two or three different types of fatty acids. This contrasts with simple triglycerides, where all three fatty acids attached to the glycerol backbone are identical. This structural variety accounts for the diverse physical properties seen in natural fats and oils.

While both are derived from the tropical fruit, coconut butter is made from the whole coconut flesh, while coconut oil is just the extracted fat. This fundamental difference in composition means that coconut butter is not the same as coconut oil, leading to significant variations in texture, flavor, and culinary applications.

According to Gauthmath, the most common source of fats in nature is plants, which produce oils and fats in their seeds, fruits, and nuts. While animal fats are also prevalent, plant-based lipids are more abundant and widespread globally.

An estimated 80% of dietary fats consumed in the United States come from processed and animal sources, yet healthy, natural fats are essential for many bodily functions. Knowing where natural fats are found is key to improving your diet, as they play crucial roles in energy production, vitamin absorption, and cell health.

Tricaprin, a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), is a valuable compound whose natural sources include milkfat, coconut oil, and palm kernel oil. This fat is metabolized more like a carbohydrate than a conventional fat, making it a subject of interest in both nutritional science and the personal care industry.

For centuries, raw shea butter has been a staple in West African cooking, used for frying, flavoring, and as a healthy fat source. Yet, for those unfamiliar with this tradition, the question remains: can you eat raw unrefined shea butter safely? The answer is yes, provided you source it carefully and ensure it is of edible quality.

An average medium-sized apple contains only about 0.3 grams of fat, but the question "Do apples contain oil?" has a more nuanced answer. While the fleshy, edible part of the apple is not considered an oily food, its seeds are a source of valuable oil, and the skin possesses a natural waxy coating.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), limiting intake of saturated fats and replacing them with unsaturated vegetable oils can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Finding out which natural oil is best for health involves understanding different fat profiles, smoke points, and nutritional benefits to make informed choices for your diet and well-being.

For centuries, shea butter has been used as a traditional cooking fat in West African cuisine, providing a rich, nutty flavour to various dishes. This practice raises a common question for many: can shea butter be used internally, and what are the specific considerations for safe consumption?

Did you know that a study showed wood-pressed oil has a higher antioxidant capacity compared to refined oil due to its gentle, low-heat extraction process? This retention of natural compounds is at the core of what are the benefits of wood-pressed oil, offering a more wholesome alternative to modern commercial oils.