Posted on: Saturday, June 25, 2005
PRESCRIPTIONS
Enova cooking oil has its pluses and minuses
By Amy Tousman
Q. Is it true that the new cooking oil called Enova is less fattening than other oils?
A. Enova is derived from soybean and canola oil. Enova's microscopic fat particles are altered in a way that changes how the body uses them. The fat in traditional vegetable oils is stored in the body's fat cells. Most of Enova's fat particles are converted to a form which is used for energy instead of being stored as fat.
Some studies suggest Enova may help reduce weight, body fat and appetite. However, if you expect to lose a large amount of weight by switching to Enova, you may be disappointed.
In a six month study, overweight or obese participants ate a reduced-calorie diet incorporating foods made with either Enova or regular vegetable oil. Those using Enova lost an average of two pounds more than those using regular vegetable oil. They lost approximately 3 percent more body fat than the vegetable oil group.
I doubt an extra two pounds of weight loss would excite most obese people. The weight loss mainly occurred during the first three months of the study. There's no evidence that continued use of Enova would produce more weight loss.
Enova may show its real value in preventing weight gain rather than causing weight loss. One hundred and fifty-five overweight or obese people who were not dieting substituted Enova for their usual cooking oil. After a year, they weighed an average of two pounds less than similar people who used regular vegetable oil. If these results last beyond a year, Enova might help prevent the gradual weight gain we often experience as we get older.
Enova has the same amount of calories and fat as conventional oils. It tastes similar and can be used in the same way as other oils. Although long-term safety has not been formally studied, it has been used safely in Japan for the last six years.
One disadvantage of Enova is its high proportion of omega-6 fats compared to omega-3 fats. Health experts recommend the opposite. Eating more omega-3 fats and less omega-6 fats could help prevent heart disease and other health problems.
Enova may offer a small weight loss benefit when used as part of a sensible eating plan. Enova, canola and olive oils all have different health benefits. The cost of Enova is double that of canola oil, but similar to olive oil.
Amy Tousman is a registered dietitian with the Health Education Center of Straub Clinic & Hospital. Hawai'i experts in traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine and diet take turns writing the Prescriptions column. Send questions to: Prescriptions, Island Life, The Honolulu Advertiser, P.O. Box 3110, Hono-lulu, HI 96802; islandlife@honoluluadvertiser.com; or fax 535-8170. This column is not intended to provide medical advice.
