• Properties and applications of rapeseed oil
• Properties and uses of sunflower oil
• Sunflower or rapeseed oil – which to choose?

The most commonly used oils in Poland are those pressed from sunflower and rapeseed. They are used in restaurants and at home. Very often, we use them interchangeably, without considering whether there are differences between them, whether one of them suits a particular dish better or less, and whether their properties are similar. Which should we choose, and what are the differences between them?

Properties and applications of rapeseed oil

The list of beneficial properties of rapeseed oil for our body is extremely long. Among other things, it has a positive effect on the immune and circulatory systems, vision, proper kidney function, and skin condition. It also has antioxidant properties and helps lower bad cholesterol levels. The content of unhealthy saturated fatty acids, which are found in almost every fat in rapeseed oil, is relatively low. On the other hand, we find a favorable ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 acids, making it one of the healthiest vegetable oils. It is also a valuable resource:

• Vitamins:
• A - improves the condition of the eyes and skin,
• E - has an antioxidant effect and eliminates free radicals,
• K - is responsible for the proper functioning of the blood clotting process,
• Phytosterols - contribute to maintaining proper cholesterol levels,
• Oleic acid - helps lower levels of bad cholesterol.

Rapeseed oil is also used in cosmetics due to its high content of vitamin E and omega-3 acids. Vitamin E effectively protects against free radicals, slows down the skin's aging process, and prevents the formation of wrinkles. Provitamin A helps relieve skin irritations, while vitamin K helps with acne and capillary changes. Rapeseed oil can be used as a base for preparing a homemade face mask, body scrub, or hair oil treatment.

Properties and uses of sunflower oil

Like rapeseed oil, sunflower oil contains large amounts of phytosterols, which help lower bad cholesterol, but its omega-3 to omega-6 ratio is less favorable. However, it contains even more vitamin E. It is available in refined and unrefined forms. Refined sunflower oil is purified and subjected to high temperatures, giving it a high smoke point and making it ideal for frying, but retains few valuable nutrients. Unrefined sunflower oil is not suitable for frying, but added to salads, it has a positive effect on our body's condition. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and can be used for skin conditions.

It also has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, helps lower blood pressure, reduces bad cholesterol and triglycerides, and increases good cholesterol. It can be used by people with insulin resistance, as it helps regulate blood sugar levels. Unrefined sunflower oil contains large amounts of ingredients that have a positive effect on our overall well-being. It is rich in:

• saturated fatty acids:
• It contributes to the growth of muscle mass and muscle strength.
• Stearic acid - often used in cosmetics, is a very good emulsifier,
• Palmitine - plays an important role in the proper functioning of the lungs as it prevents the alveoli from collapsing,
• unsaturated fatty acids:
• Icosene - regulates sugar levels, lowers blood pressure and prevents the formation of kidney stones,
• Oleic acid - has anti-inflammatory properties, is effective in combating excess weight, helps lower the levels of "bad" cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, protects against the development of atherosclerosis, and simultaneously increases the level of "good" cholesterol, thereby lowering blood pressure. It is used in cosmetics for moisturizing and regenerating skin.

Sunflower or rapeseed oil – which to choose?

Both sunflower and rapeseed oil are valuable sources of unsaturated fatty acids. Sunflower oil contains more of them, but rapeseed oil contains them in a better ratio. Pressed rapeseed oil contains the least harmful saturated fatty acids of all cooking oils, at only 7%. Olive oil, considered the healthiest vegetable oil, contains twice as much. About 10% of this is found in sunflower oil. Sunflower oil is richer in vitamin E, while rapeseed oil contains more vitamins A and K. Both oils, sunflower and rapeseed, are perfect for everyday cooking.

Cold-pressed rapeseed or sunflower seed oils have a rich flavor and aroma. Called "liquid gold," they're a great alternative to olive oil, and their added advantage is the fact that they're a local product of Poland. They're suitable for dressings, sauces, salads, and homemade mayonnaise. Cold-pressed rapeseed and sunflower oils aren't suitable for heating. It's best to use refined oil for frying. Due to its polyunsaturated fatty acid content in a favorable ratio, rapeseed oil is better suited for longer frying. Sunflower oil is good for quick frying in a pan.