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Most people have replaced butter with margarine as it is considered to be healthy and made from vegetable oils, unlike butter which contains animal fat. However, margarine contains chemical preservatives and bleaching agents, along with high amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids. But the fact that these chemicals rob the healthy nutrients is not known by many. Hence, it is advised that one should not consume margarine daily. Here are five reasons why margarine should be included in the diet with caution, explains Dr Tejender Kaur Sarna, Nutritionist and Lifestyle Coach.
1. Might lead to allergies As margarine contains emulsifying agents, coloring compounds and chemical preservatives, there is a high chance that the person might be at a high risk of allergic reaction to the added ingredients. Hence, before buying one, make it a habit to read the label and go through the list of ingredients to be sure about any compounds, which might trigger an allergic reaction.
2. Increases your risk of cancer Did you know that margarine contains free radicals? Free radicals are compounds, which are produced in the body as a result of metabolic reactions and can cause damage to the cells leading to inflammation and swelling. And in the long run, might increase your risk of cancer by triggering uncontrolled division of the cells.
3. Can cause hypertension As margarine is high in salt, excessive intake might hinder the blood flow to different organs of the body. And if left untreated, it might put pressure on the walls of the arteries leading to high blood pressure or hypertension. Moreover, it also causes a disturbance in the fluid-electrolyte balance in the body, thereby further worsening the condition.
4. Increases cholesterol level Although margarine contains healthy fats, namely monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids, the amount is less as compared to saturated fats and trans fatty acids. And this is the reason, why it is not advised to eat margarine daily as the overall caloric intake and fat content increases severely. And if this continues on a daily basis, then the cholesterol level also increases at the same rate.
5. Puts you at a risk of heart disease Margarine is high in trans fatty acids, which is very unhealthy and harmful if not eaten with caution. As it increases blood pressure and cholesterol level, which are known risk factors of heart disease, it indirectly puts you at high risk of heart disease. In some cases, intake of margarine is directly associated with heart attacks. Hence, avoid eating margarine on a daily basis and that too within limit.
Are there any healthy replacements for margarine in Indian diet?
Dr TejenderKaur Sarna, Nutritionist and Lifestyle Coach says, 'It is best to avoid margarine. However, if you are trying to replace it with a healthy alternative then butter is better i.e., it is good amongst the evils.' Butter contains lecithin, a substance, which helps in the proper assimilation and metabolism of cholesterol and other fat compounds. Moreover, it is rich in antioxidants which not only flushes harmful toxins from the body but also captures free radicals.
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