Post by : Saif Rahman

Dr. Jayesh Sharma, an experienced cancer surgeon based in Raipur, has raised a critical alert regarding a prevalent cooking practice that many Indian families overlook. He emphasizes that the habit of reusing cooking oil after deep-frying poses significant health risks. While many believe they are economizing, they may be unknowingly endangering their health. His key advice: prioritize your well-being over leftover oil.

Sharing his insights on social media, Dr. Sharma detailed the hazards of reheating and reusing used cooking oil. He noted that repeated heating transforms the oil, creating harmful compounds like aldehydes and trans fats. These dangerous substances infiltrate the food, potentially damaging cells and DNA. Consequently, this practice raises the risks of various ailments, including cancer and heart disease, despite the oil appearing safe to use.

In Indian households, leftover cooking oil is often treated with undue reverence, stored for later use after frying snacks. However, each instance of reheating elevates the oil's toxicity. Indicators like darkening, thickening, and a burnt odor indicate deterioration, yet the invisible chemical changes can truly harm. These alterations can lead to internal inflammation, blockages, and increased cholesterol, underscoring that even seemingly healthy individuals may suffer from hidden repercussions of reused oil.

While Dr. Sharma remarked that mustard and groundnut oils may be slightly less harmful if reused, he still warns against the practice entirely. Regardless of type, oil that has been overheated and reused repeatedly becomes detrimental. He encourages opting for smaller quantities of fresh oil and using healthier cooking techniques, such as steaming or grilling, over deep frying.

He emphasized that reusing oil does not equate to savings; it can lead to costly medical expenses down the line. The health issues linked with reused oil develop insidiously, often going unnoticed until major health concerns arise. The doctor encourages families to make conscious adjustments to safeguard their long-term health. By avoiding reused oil and adopting safer cooking habits, they can significantly reduce the likelihood of severe health conditions.

In closing, Dr. Sharma reiterated the importance of prioritizing health over financial savings. Discarding old oil might feel wasteful, but safeguarding one’s health is paramount. The hidden costs associated with reusing oil affect the heart, cells, and overall future well-being. His alert serves as a compelling reminder for families to assess this common practice and choose health over savings.

#Health #Wellness