Palm Kernel Oil: Benefits, Nutritional Value, Side Effects, and Everyday Uses

• High in saturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants.
• Ideal for cooking, skincare, and traditional remedies.
• Overuse may impact health; production affects the environment.

Palm kernel oil is a type of vegetable oil derived from the kernel (seed) of the oil palm fruit. It is widely used in various culinary applications and industrial processes.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that like other vegetable oils, palm kernel oil offers several benefits, and contains essential nutrients, but also comes with potential side effects if consumed in excessive amounts.

EDITOR’S PICKS 

• Polaris Bank’s Initiatives Ensure Continuous Education for Over 16,000 Students
• Verydarkman Pranks Nigerians: No N180 Missing From NGO Funds
• Why I Faked Missing N180m — VeryDarkMan

Below is a comprehensive overview of its benefits, nutritional value, side effects, and usage:

Benefits of Palm Kernel Oil

1. Rich in Saturated Fats
   Palm kernel oil is high in saturated fats, making it stable at high temperatures. This stability makes it suitable for cooking methods such as frying and baking.
2. Antioxidant Properties
   It contains vitamin E and other antioxidants that help protect the body’s cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
3. Skin and Hair Care
   Palm kernel oil is a common ingredient in skin care products and hair conditioners due to its moisturizing and emollient properties.
4. Nutrient Absorption
   The saturated fats in palm kernel oil aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K.
5. Heart Health
   While palm kernel oil is high in saturated fats, it contains lauric acid, which may have neutral or slightly beneficial effects on cholesterol levels when consumed in moderation.

   FURTHER READING

   • Why We Must Increase Call, Data Tariffs In 2025 – Telecoms Operators
   • 19 Year old Arraigned in Kaduna for Allegedly Stabbing Uncle
   • Diversify or Face Poverty: Abbas Calls for Economic Shift

1. Traditional Remedies
   • Convulsions: Some mothers use palm kernel oil to treat convulsions and colds in children by administering it orally and applying it topically.
   • High Fever: It is believed that palm kernel oil can help reduce fever in children by being rubbed on the body.
   • Cough: It is also believed that palm kernel oil soften cough and reduces its effect by drinking just a tablespoon .

Nutritional Value of Palm Kernel Oil (per 100g)

• Calories: 862 kcal
• Total Fat: 100 g
  • Saturated Fat: 81 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.7 g
• Vitamin E: 15 mg
• Vitamin K: 7 µg
• Phytosterols: 33 mg
• Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone): 4.6 mg

Side Effects of Palm Kernel Oil

1. High in Saturated Fats
   While moderate consumption of saturated fats is not inherently harmful, excessive intake can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
2. Weight Gain
   Its high-calorie content can contribute to weight gain if consumed excessively and not balanced with physical activity.
3. Allergies
   Some individuals may be allergic to palm kernel oil, experiencing skin reactions or digestive discomfort upon ingestion or topical use.
4. Environmental Concerns
   Palm kernel oil production has been linked to deforestation and habitat destruction, which negatively impact biodiversity and the environment.

Usage of Palm Kernel Oil

1. Cooking
   Palm kernel oil is commonly used for cooking and frying due to its high smoke point and stability at high temperatures.
2. Food Processing
   It is a key ingredient in various processed foods, including margarine, chocolate, and baked goods.
3. Cosmetics
   Many skincare products, soaps, and hair care items include palm kernel oil for its moisturizing properties.
4. Industrial Applications
   It is used in the production of soaps, detergents, candles, and other industrial products.
5. Dietary Supplements
   Palm kernel oil is also available in supplement form, sometimes combined with other oils or nutrients.

Here is the video of the week