The Benefits of Using Hazelnut Oil and Where to Buy It Near Me

The Benefits of Hazelnut Extract and Where to Buy It

Hazelnuts are incredibly nutritious nuts that have been used for centuries for their rich flavor and impressive nutrient profile. The oil extracted from hazelnuts, known as hazelnut oil or hazelnut extract, offers many of the same benefits as the nut itself. If you're looking to add hazelnut extract to your pantry, this guide will explore the key benefits of hazelnut oil and help you find options to buy it near you.

Nutritional Benefits of Hazelnut Oil

Like the hazelnut itself, hazelnut oil is nutritionally dense and provides an array of important vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds. Here's an overview of some of the top nutrients found in hazelnut oil:

• Healthy fats - Hazelnut oil is over 90% fat, mostly made up of monounsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid. Monounsaturated fats may improve cholesterol levels and lower heart disease risk.
• Vitamin E - One tablespoon of hazelnut oil contains nearly 10% of the RDI for vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that fights inflammation and cell damage.
• Phytosterols - Hazelnut oil provides phytosterols, a compound that can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
• Vitamin K - This important vitamin plays a key role in bone health. Just one tablespoon of hazelnut oil delivers 12% of the RDI for vitamin K.
• Squalene - This unique antioxidant compound has been shown to have anti-cancer and immune-boosting properties.

In addition to these nutrients, hazelnut oil contains smaller amounts of magnesium, calcium, iron and potassium.

Health Benefits of Hazelnut Oil

The powerful nutrient profile of hazelnut oil translates to some serious health benefits. Here are some of the top evidence-based ways that hazelnut oil may boost your health:

• Supports heart health - The mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids in hazelnut oil may improve cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure and decrease inflammation, all protecting against heart disease.
• Promotes brain function - The vitamin E in hazelnut oil acts as an antioxidant in the brain, where it can preserve cognitive function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's.
• Reduces inflammation - With its content of vitamin E, phytosterols and other anti-inflammatory compounds, hazelnut oil can reduce the chronic inflammation involved in many diseases.
• Strengthens bones - Hazelnut oil is rich in vitamin K, a critical nutrient that promotes bone growth and protects bone density.
• May have anti-cancer effects - Test tube studies show that compounds in hazelnut oil, like oleic acid and squalene, may suppress cancer cell growth and development.

Thanks to its stellar nutritional profile, hazelnut oil may also aid in maintaining healthy skin, promoting regularity, supporting oral health and regulating blood sugar levels.

Culinary Uses for Hazelnut Oil

In addition to its health benefits, hazelnut oil is prized for its versatility in cooking. Here are some of the most popular ways to use hazelnut oil:

• Drizzled over salads, roasted veggies or fresh bread
• In baked goods like cakes, cookies and muffins
• To coat fish, poultry or pork before baking/roasting
• In sauces like vinaigrettes, pesto or aioli
• As a butter or olive oil substitute for sauting veggies or mushrooms
• In smoothies, oatmeal or yogurt for added flavor
• As part of a breading or marinade for fried foods

Hazelnut oil has a very strong, nutty flavor that pairs well with robust ingredients and adds a nice crunch when used to coat foods before baking. A little bit goes a long way, so start with just a teaspoon or two to complement your recipes.

Where to Buy Hazelnut Oil

Although not as common as other nut oils and extracts, hazelnut oil can be found in many major grocery stores, health food shops and online retailers. Here are some great places to buy hazelnut oil near you:

• Amazon - Offers a huge selection of hazelnut oils and extracts at competitive prices. Can buy in different sized bottles.
• Vitacost - Specialty health retailer with organic, cold-pressed and flavored hazelnut oils. Reasonable prices.
• iHerb - Stocks various reputable brands of hazelnut oil. Useful customer reviews.
• Thrive Market - Online natural foods store with hazelnut oils and hazelnut butter options.
• Nuts.com - Sells their own brand of roasted hazelnut oil in sizes from 8oz to 128oz.

When buying hazelnut oil, look for products that are cold pressed, organic and unrefined. This helps maximize the oil's nutritional value. Also be sure to store hazelnut oil in a cool, dark place like the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Price Range for Hazelnut Oil

Hazelnut oil is generally more expensive than more common vegetable oils but still affordable. Expect to pay in the following ranges:

• 8-16 oz (250-500ml) bottle - $7 to $20
• 16-33 oz (500ml to 1L) bottle - $15 to $30
• Gallon size jug - $60 to $100

Prices vary based on the brand, quality, bottle size and where you shop. Buying in bulk usually offers the best value per ounce. And purchasing online tends to be cheaper than buying at a physical retailer.

How to Use Hazelnut Oil

Hazelnut oil is very versatile in cooking but does have a low smoke point. This means it should not be used for frying or roasting at very high heats.

For the best flavor and to retain nutrients, here are some tips on the best ways to use hazelnut oil:

• Drizzle over prepared dishes or add to dressings, not during cooking
• If heating, use low to medium heat only
• Mix into cold foods like smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal
• Use in raw preparations like salad dressings, dips, marinades
• Refrigerate after opening for longest shelf life
• Enjoy the nutty aroma and flavor - use smaller amounts than other oils
• Pair with bold ingredients like dark leafy greens, chicken, citrus, chocolate

Hazelnut oil can quickly become rancid if heated too much or stored improperly. For best quality, buy only amounts you will use within a couple months.

Should You Add Hazelnut Oil to Your Diet?

Packed with healthy fats, antioxidants and important vitamins and minerals, hazelnut oil offers a wide array of benefits. From protecting your heart and brain to fighting inflammation and strengthening your bones, hazelnut oil can be a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Thanks to its rich, nutty taste, hazelnut oil also enhances many recipes and ingredients. It works well in both sweet and savory preparations.

Hazelnut oil is easy to find online or in specialty markets. Just be sure to store it properly and add it to dishes after cooking for the best results.

So if you're looking for a flavorful oil that can boost your health, consider incorporating hazelnut oil into your cooking routine and diet.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.