'Most People Use Wrong One’ Which Cooking Oil Is Better For Your Heart? Check AIIMS Expert's Opinion

Many people use cooking oil daily without checking if it’s the right kind for their health. But Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat, a neurologist from AIIMS Delhi, says most are getting it wrong. In a recent Instagram video, she broke down which oils are heart-friendly and which ones are putting you at risk.

Dr. Sehrawat, who also runs the “SabkiSehat” health campaign, urges people to think twice about what they pour into their pans. She says, “Let’s be AWARE “ while pointing out that popular choices like refined oils could silently be damaging your heart.

Refined Oils Raise Heart Risk, Says AIIMS Expert

Dr. Sehrawat explains that cooking oils rich in saturated fatty acids (like palm oil and many refined oils) can trigger inflammation in the body. She explains, “These oils can increase inflammation in your body and raise your risk for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks.” They also increase bad cholesterol (LDL), which makes them a risky pick for daily use.

Despite being easy to find and affordable, these oils are heavily processed. That processing strips away the good stuff and leaves behind compounds that can harm your heart. Dr. Sehrawat suggests avoiding these oils if you care about long-term heart health.

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Cooking Oils With Unsaturated Fatty Acids Are A Better Choice

Instead, she recommends switching to oils with unsaturated fatty acids—the kind that support heart function. These include MUFA (monounsaturated fatty acids) and PUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acids), both of which lower bad cholesterol and increase the good one.

Dr. Sehrawat lists her go-to healthy oils:

• Cold-pressed mustard oil
• Virgin olive oil
• Canola oil
• Rice bran oil

These oils are less processed and naturally retain nutrients that support a healthy body and heart. However, only changing your oil won’t help. She insists that at least 30 minutes of daily exercise is necessary to really improve your health. She adds, “An active lifestyle plus the right oil is the real combo you need.”

There’s another thing to remember - don’t overheat your oil. Dr. Sehrawat warns that reheating oils repeatedly, especially olive oil, can destroy their nutrients. Always cook on low to medium flame and avoid using the same oil over and over again.

So next time you reach for that bottle in your kitchen, take a second look. The wrong oil could be doing more harm than you think. And the right one, paired with a little movement every day, might just keep your heart ticking longer.

Stay smart. Stay active. Stay heart-healthy.