I recently ran across some salad dressings with high oleic sunflower oil listed on the ingredients, and was curious as to what it was, so I did a little research on the ingredient. Here’s what I found.

High oleic sunflower oil is a type of plant oil made from sunflower seeds and is about 80% oleic acid. Traditional sunflower oil has around 20% oleic acid, so having the “high oleic sunflower oil” is a much healthier choice.

Because oleic acid has fewer double bonds in its chemical structure than linoleic acid, high-oleic sunflower oil is less susceptible to oxidation (which can result in rancidity) than traditional sunflower oil. So, high-oleic sunflower oil is more stable when used for cooking (including high-heat, deep frying used by food companies), and products made with it have a longer shelf life. (source)

I was surprised at the oleic acid benefit list and have been enjoying Tessemae dressings regularly!

Benefits of Oleic Acid

• Promotes fat burning
• Lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL)
• Controls high blood pressure
• Boosts brain function
• Improves the functioning of the heart and circulatory system
• Reduces the inflammation of joints
• Helps prevent Type 2 Diabetes
• Fights the effects of free radicals in the body
• Inhibits the growth of cancerous cells
• Promotes skin repair
• Helps relieve arthritis symptoms

Most store-bought salad dressings contain unhealthy vegetable oils (i.e. soybean, canola). These oils should be avoided as they are high in omega-6 fatty acids which leads to inflammation and weight gain.

A healthier choice would be to make your own or use Tessemae dressings — so many yummy varieties! My favorites have been Classic Italian, Classic Ranch, and Cilantro Lime Ranch. I’ve also enjoyed the honey poppyseed with my simple spinach and strawberry salad.

Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that occurs naturally in the fats and oils of both animals and vegetables. Those on the Keto diet know healthy fats are an essential part of your body’s ability to function and is and are an important element in weight management.

Oleic acid is an odorless, colorless oil, so it works well in salad dressings. Buy it on Amazon.

You can also find some oleic acid in these sources.

  • Macadamia nut
  • Peanuts
  • Butter
  • Sesame oil
  • Peanut oil
  • Avocados
  • Cashews
  • Sunflower oil
  • Almonds
  • Pistachio nuts
  • Hazelnuts
  • Pecans
  • Eggs
  • Cheese
  • Beef
  • Chicken
  • Pork
  • Bacon

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