Did you know that oils such as canola, sunflower, corn, and soy aren't derived from vegetables but from seeds and plants?
The process of extracting these oils involves crushing the seeds, subjecting them to high pressure and heat, and using a chemical solvent called hexane. Hexane helps separate the oil from other components. Following extraction, the oil undergoes refining, bleaching, and deodorizing to improve its appearance and remove unwanted odors and flavors.
However, this extensive processing strips the oil of its original nutrients and results in an unnaturally high concentration of omega-6 fatty acids. The exposure to high temperatures and chemicals can lead to the formation of harmful compounds like trans fats and oxidised fatty acids, which have been associated with health issues such as inflammation, hormonal imbalances, gut disorders, and cancer.
Fortunately, some companies opt for alternative methods like cold-pressed extraction, which doesn't involve hexane. Yet, this method is less common due to its lower efficiency and higher cost.
Now, let's take a moment to appreciate the wonders of traditional fats like ghee, butter, and tallow!
Ghee, a cherished ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, is a pregnancy superfood. Bursting with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, ghee offers versatility in cooking due to its high smoke point.
Butter (that beloved staple of your childhood) is also an excellent source of healthy saturated fats. It's packed with essential vitamins and minerals crucial for your growing baby's development, including vitamin A, essential for eye and immune system development. Opting for grass-fed butter ensures an even richer nutrient profile!
And let's not forget about tallow, a nourishing fat derived from beef or lamb. Packed with fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K2, as well as beneficial fatty acids, tallow helps heal and nurture the skin. Applying tallow topically can transform it into the most indulgent moisturiser, perfect for your growing belly!
Consider this your gentle reminder to always look at the ingredients list of packaged food. Even those labeled as "healthy" and "organic" can sneak in vegetable oils.
Let this be an inspiration to explore your kitchen pantry and get creative with ingredients. By doing so, you'll know precisely what goes into your meals, allowing you to incorporate nourishing whole foods that support both you and your little growing human 💗