Written By: Prerna Mittra | Updated : December 26, 2024 10:31 AM IST
Medically Verified By: Dr Varun Bansal, cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals
Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, palm oil transcends its role as a mere culinary ingredient, emerging as a nutritional partner dedicated to helping women lead healthier lives. (Photo: Freepik)
Diet plays a very important role when it comes to women's health, which is often not prioritised enough. The kind of oil used when cooking meals can make or break one's health, and in recent times, healthier alternatives to refined oil have emerged. One such alternative is palm oil, which is considered to be a nutritional ally when it comes to the health and well-being of women. It is known for its nutrient density. Palm oil has also been gaining recognition for promoting hormonal balance in women, enhancing the skin's vitality, and supporting bone health. Considered to be a nutritional powerhouse, this oil has become an indispensable choice for a woman's holistic well-being. READ ON to find out more about it.
According to Dr Varun Bansal, cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals, palm oil is an excellent natural plant source of lipid-soluble antioxidants, including carotenoids, vitamin E, and ubiquinone. Among these nutrients, vitamin E stands out for its profound health benefits for women.
Vitamin E, specifically tocotrienols, serves as a potent antioxidant that combats oxidative stress and supports a healthy endocrine system, the doctor says, adding that research underscores its role in regulating hormonal balance by inhibiting oxidative damage, stabilising cell membranes, and fostering normal physiological functions of the reproductive system.
"Vitamin E, critically important in reproduction, mitigates oxidative stress caused by free radicals, thereby enhancing overall reproductive health. This regulatory effect extends to reducing the risks of reproductive disorders, promoting smoother skin, and bolstering vitality. Additionally, tocotrienols exhibit cardio-protective properties, reducing risks associated with age-related cardiovascular diseases. By shielding cells from oxidative damage, they lower the likelihood of chronic conditions such as heart disease and certain cancers," Dr Bansal points out.
Dr Bansal states that palm oil is also a rich source of carotenoids, including beta-carotene and lycopene. These compounds, revered for their antioxidant properties, offer significant health benefits. Beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, plays a vital role in women's reproductive health. It is crucial for foetal development during pregnancy.
Carotenoids also contribute to folliculogenesis (the maturation of ovarian follicles), oogenesis (the formation of ova), and steroidogenesis (the synthesis of steroid hormones). By improving fertility and reducing embryonic mortality risks, these nutrients prioritise reproductive health.
Palm oil's carotenoid content has also been shown to prevent or alleviate vitamin A deficiency (VAD), a condition linked to blindness, infection, and mortality among pregnant women and preschool children. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 19 million pregnant women in underdeveloped regions suffer from VAD. Supplementing diets with carotenoid-rich palm oil can significantly increase retinol levels in maternal serum and breast milk, benefitting both mothers and infants, says the cardiologist.
Hormonal health relies heavily on maintaining a balanced lipid profile, as hormones like estrogen and progesterone are synthesised from cholesterol. According to the health expert, palm oil's unique properties help regulate cholesterol levels by lowering LDL ('bad' cholesterol) and triglycerides, while boosting HDL ('good' cholesterol). This balance supports hormone production and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
As women age, the risk of osteoporosis becomes a growing concern. Vitamin K, present in palm oil, plays a critical role in supporting bone density and reducing fracture risks. Often promoted as a supplement to prevent osteoporosis, vitamin K enhances calcium utilisation, making bones stronger.
Additionally, the antioxidants in palm oil protect skin cells from UV damage, promote elasticity, and contribute to a youthful appearance. Carotenoids, frequently incorporated into cosmeceuticals, enhance skin properties and protect against environmental damage, offering both protective and restorative benefits.
Chronic stress is a major disruptor of hormonal balance, and the adrenal glands, responsible for producing stress hormones like cortisol, can benefit immensely from palm oil's antioxidant properties. Excessive oxidative stress impairs maternal and placental functions and eventually results in fetal loss, IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction, a serious condition that occurs when a fetus does not grow at a normal rate during pregnancy) and gestational diabetes mellitus.
"By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, palm oil helps regulate cortisol levels, thereby supporting overall endocrine health. The fat-soluble nutrients in palm oil further enhance the bioavailability of vitamins necessary for hormone production, ensuring optimal body function," the doctor concludes.
The above-mentioned information is generic. It is not a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult with a specialist or a doctor for more information pertaining to your health and history. If you choose to consume palm oil, do so in moderation. Choose sustainable and high-quality sources to minimise potential environmental and health impacts. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns or pre-existing conditions.
