Regular consumption of palm oil has a protective effect on the body due to the fatty acids it contains.

The palm nut is a seed that comes from the palm. It may be advised against for certain individuals, but nevertheless, it has many virtues, according to some nutritionists.

The palm tree has many derivatives, all beneficial for health and well-being. As for its virtues, they are countless both for humans in general and for athletes in particular.

"Palm nuts have a lot of virtues. It is important to know that it is an oilseed nut. They are also called dry oilseed fruits, rich in lycopene and vitamin A, rich in unsaturated fatty acids, and promote good memory because it contains a bit of vitamin B.

According to a study conducted by researchers in 2013, it is a form of vitamin E that protects brain cells. It prevents certain diseases such as cancers and helps to reduce cholesterol. Palm oil contains saturated fatty acids, particularly palmitic acid, which gives it a semi-solid consistency at room temperature.

Highly consumed in the West African sub-region, palm oil is an oil extracted from the palm nut. It is involved in many of our dishes, but its multiple health benefits are not well known.

According to scientists, palm oil, commonly called "red oil," is considered the natural food richest in vitamin A. It contains about 15 times more than carrots.

Anti-wrinkle virtues

Regular consumption of this oil also has a protective effect on the body due to the fatty acids it contains. It is also beneficial for menopausal women, pregnant women, and can even be used against osteoporosis.

At the skin level, vitamin A contributes to skin hydration and activates the production of melanin. It also has anti-wrinkle properties. Beta-carotene, a derivative of vitamin A, is especially known for giving a nice tanned complexion. That's why palm oil is widely used in the West in cosmetics, particularly in foundations.

It is very resistant to oxidation, can withstand high temperatures – up to 180 degrees, and remains solid at room temperature.

Palm oil promotes good memory

In cosmetic care, palm oil claims other properties. Indeed, applied before shampooing, it revives tips and gives silkiness to the hair. In an oil bath, it is excellent. Its natural actives are also perfect for preserving the nature of the hair.

But be careful to enjoy the benefits of palm oil to the fullest; it must be used naturally: it must not be refined or processed.

Rich in unsaturated fatty acids, it promotes good memory because it contains a bit of vitamin B. This is part of the macronutrients that we constantly need," revealed Patrick Zinvoedo, a trained dietitian who adds: "Likewise, these are lipids in the category of unsaturated fatty acids that the heart and blood vessels need for good functioning and produce energy to the body, muscles, and tissues. So the palm nut is natural for health. Palm nuts provide the fatty acids that athletes need for proper cell function, they give energy."

According to him, palm nuts take time before producing bad cholesterol if the individual does not overindulge.

Nourishing and protective

Moreover, palm oil, drawn from the pulp of the oil palm fruit, is distinct from palm kernel oil, which is extracted from the core. One can also differentiate between palm oil and unrefined red palm oil, which is richest in carotene. "To enjoy all the properties of palm oil while preserving the environment, we can only advise consumers to be particularly strict on the quality of the oil used and its mode of production," the dietitian said.

Nourishing and protective, palm oil is particularly hydrating, and that is why it is widely used in soap making. It protects the hair against dehydration, while providing softness and shine.

Corneille Kinsala Nsoki, Phytotherapist