Canola oil vs mustard oil: Which is better for overall health? - #10091

Well, you’ve got a lot going on with those cooking oils. First, both mustard oil and canola oil each have their own pros, and neither is inherently better—it really depends on your unique constitution and health goals.

Now, you’re dealing with a Vata-Pitta constitution and coping with some inflammation around the joints. Mustard oil actually aligns better with Vata dominance due to its warming properties. It boosts digestion (agni) and, when used moderately, can help with healthy circulation and immunity due to its rich presence of omega-3 fatty acids. However, you’re right—excess can sometimes trigger Pitta, causing inflammation, which isn’t what you need.

Canola oil, on the other hand, is often promoted for its heart-friendly reputation, due to the lower saturated fat content and higher omega-3. Considering a blend or alternating with the more neutral canola oil might balance things out for you, reducing that Pitta-related inflammation and still supporting heart health. For digestion and weight, focus more on how you use them – cook on low heat to retain benefits and avoid trans fats.

Vata-Pitta individuals often need a stable routine to calm their doshas. Keep meals warm, freshly cooked, and moderate. Don’t go overboard with refrigeration or microwaving the oils like mustard and canola—loses prana, that life force, ya know?

Aside from oils, try including spices like ginger, turmeric (for anti-inflammatory benefits), and cumin in your dishes—your digestion will thank you. They’re great for stirring up agni, the digestive fire you might be struggling with.

If weight loss is a priority, ensure you’re not over-restricting calories either. Fuel with enough carbohydrates and proteins at regular intervals to sustain metabolism. Keep the fruits and veggies happening, and minimize processed food, sugar and refined grains—u’d be surprised at their sneaky weight-gaining ways.

Ayurveda often praises oils like sesame for Vata folks, but for your constitution, a teeny bit of moderation and balance should work wonders. And yeah, definitely check with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized advice—they can assess if there’s some hidden imbalance swaying your health decisions.

In the end, mixing the wisdom of tradition with personal needs always tends to get the best results!