Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial as the increased availability of unhealthy foods and rising stress levels have increased health problems. As people increasingly make healthier choices, replacing regular oil with mustard oil has become common. While it has various benefits, mustard oil also has some disadvantages. Read on to discover the side effects of mustard oil to ensure safe and healthy usage.
What are the side effects of mustard oil?
Despite its popularity, mustard oil can cause adverse effects if consumed or misused. Some potential side effects of mustard oil are as follows:
- Allergic reactions
Mustard oil contains erucic acid, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. Itching, rashes, or skin irritation might occur after topically applying mustard oil. If irritation occurs, discontinue mustard oil immediately and consult a dermatologist.
Also, avoid mustard oil if you are allergic to mustard seeds or other closely related plants like rapeseed. A patch test can be helpful before using mustard oil, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Heart health risks
One of the most discussed mustard oil side effects is its high erucic acid content. Excessive consumption of erucic acid may lead to cardiac issues, including myocardial lipidosis, which affects the heart muscles.
Mustard oil should be consumed in moderation to minimise potential harm. Choosing cold-pressed mustard oil with lower erucic acid content can be a safer option.
- Digestive discomfort
Ingesting mustard oil in large quantities may cause stomach upset, diarrhoea, or gastrointestinal discomfort. This is due to its natural pungency and the presence of isothiocyanates, which may irritate the digestive lining.
If you have a sensitive digestive system, consume mustard oil cautiously. Cooking with moderate heat or blending it with other cooking oils may help reduce its harsh effects on the stomach.
- Respiratory issues
When heated to high temperatures, mustard oil releases harmful fumes that could cause respiratory irritation. Prolonged exposure to these fumes may trigger coughing, throat irritation, or breathing difficulties.
Cook on moderate heat, ensuring good ventilation to avoid inhaling the fumes directly.
Conclusion
While mustard oil is versatile, understanding its potential drawbacks is crucial for safe use. Awareness of the side effects of mustard oil can help you make informed decisions. Consult a doctor if you experience adverse effects like skin irritation or gastrointestinal disturbances.
Alongside medical advice, acquiring comprehensive health insurance plans that can safeguard against medical expenses can be wise. Awareness and precautions ensure you can enjoy the benefits of mustard oil without compromising your well-being.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.