Ranking Oils: From Best to Worst

The fact that some oils rank higher than others does not mean that you should consume only the one or two at the top of the list. Balance is still the key to good nutrition, and nutrition depends on variety.

BEST OILS

1. Flaxseed
COMMENTS
Best source of omega 3 fatty acids; has heart- healthy properties; is a colon-friendly oil; lessens constipation; boosts immunity; promotes healthy skin; contains the healthy phytonutrient, lignin; spoils quickly without careful storage; not to be used in cooking

2. Canola
One of the lowest oils in saturated fats, making it a heart-friendly oil; a rich source of essential omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.

3. Soybean
Contains both omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, but is often highly refined and hydrogenated.

4. Olive oil (virgin or extra virgin)
Doesn't need high temperature or chemical processing, since it is made from the flesh of the olive and not the seed; slow to spoil; okay for medium-temperature cooking; in moderation lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol without affecting HDL, (good) cholesterol thereby improving the HDL-to-LDL ratio.

5. Pumpkin seed
Low in saturated fats; rich in omega-6 fatty acids, may contain some omega 3's; refining and chemical processing lowers the nutritional qualities.

MEDIUM OILS

COMMENTS

1. Safflower
Low in saturated fats, rich in omega 6 fatty acids.

2. Sunflower
Rich in omega 6 fatty acids.

3. Corn
Slightly higher in saturated fats than the best oils; usually hydrogenated; rich source of omega 6 fatty acids

4. Peanut
Somewhat high in saturated fats but still less than butter, animal fat, and cottonseed oil; good for cooking at higher temperatures.

WORST OILS

COMMENTS

1. Cottonseed
High in saturated fats; likely to contain pesticide residues; frequently hydrogenated.

2. Palm kernel
High in saturated fats, therefore a potentially cholesterol-raising oil.