Heart attacks have become a serious health concern in India, especially during the winter months. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, 32,457 people died of heart attacks in 2022, showing a 12.5 percent increase from 28,413 deaths reported the previous year. Experts link this rise partly to seasonal factors like cold weather.
A scientific literature from the National Center for Biotechnology Information notes that cardiovascular diseases cause 26.6 percent of all deaths in India. The number of people with ischemic heart disease has nearly doubled, from 25.7 million in 1990 to 54.5 million in 2016, with more cases seen in colder northern regions.
Doctors at major hospitals say that cases of acute heart attacks go up by 25 to 30 percent in winter. This happens due to vasoconstriction, a tightening of blood vessels when temperatures fall below 15°C.
These figures highlight the need for preventive care, where good nutrition plays an important role. Many people rely on healthy food habits, and the best cold-pressed oils in India during winter stand out for supporting heart health naturally. Choosing the right cooking oil not only helps the body stay protected in cold weather but also keeps alive traditional Indian food wisdom focused on natural, wholesome ingredients for lasting well-being.
Why are heart attacks higher in Winter season in India?
Winter places additional pressure on heart health in India, increasing the occurrence of heart attacks through straightforward yet significant changes in the body and daily routines. Experts observe that heart attack cases rise by 20 to 30 percent during cold months, primarily because low temperatures cause blood vessels to narrow and require the heart to work harder. This narrowing, known as vasoconstriction, helps retain body heat but raises blood pressure and adds strain to the heart, particularly for individuals already at risk. In northern regions such as Delhi and Punjab, where winter temperatures fall below 15 degrees Celsius under severe cold wave conditions, the chances of heart attacks increase, especially in people with hypertension.
Foggy winter days trap polluted air in cities, making air quality a greater threat to the heart. In Delhi, PM2.5 levels rise to over 400 micrograms per cubic meter during peak cold periods, more than 25 times the safe limit, and connect directly to increased heart attack admissions approximately one week later. A study from AIIMS indicates that for every 10 micrograms per cubic meter increase in PM2.5, the risk of a heart attack on the same day grows by 2.5 percent, as these fine particles cause inflammation in arteries and disrupt smooth blood flow.
Research shows that influenza infection significantly increases the risk of major heart problems, especially in people who already have heart disease. This risk remains higher for weeks even after recovering from the flu. In India, health experts have noted that heart-related issues rise during flu seasons. Studies from AIIMS and other key health institutions confirm that flu vaccination can reduce heart attack and stroke risks by around 20-40 percent. This makes flu shots an important step to protect heart health, particularly for high-risk groups like those with coronary artery disease or a history of heart attacks.
Reduced physical activity indoors during shorter days slows fat metabolism and allows cholesterol to build up in arteries. Less movement enables plaque to form more quickly, narrowing blood pathways and increasing the chance of blockages. Preferences for warm, fried foods introduce trans fats that harden arteries over time. To counter this, choose best cold-pressed cooking oils in India, which avoid harmful compounds produced in refined versions. Healthy cold-pressed oils retain natural antioxidants that reduce inflammation and maintain balanced fat levels. Experts recommend using them to lower LDL cholesterol naturally during winter, combining traditional Indian cooking methods with modern heart protection strategies.
These combined factors—cold temperatures, polluted air, infections, and lifestyle changes, make winters more challenging for heart health in India. Simple adjustments, such as wearing warm clothing and selecting nutritious foods, help reduce risks and support stronger cardiovascular function throughout the season.
What are cold-pressed oils?
Cold-pressed oils are the healthiest cooking oils made by gently pressing seeds, nuts, or fruits without heat or chemicals. This natural process preserves important nutrients, antioxidants, and natural flavours that are lost in refined oils. In India, traditional cold-pressed oils like mustard, sesame, coconut, and groundnut are widely trusted and remain among the best cold-pressed oils in India for cooking.
These healthy cooking oils often look cloudy or golden and have a rich, nutty taste that enhances the flavour of Indian dishes. Extracted below 49°C, they keep vitamins and healthy fats intact, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which support heart health and reduce inflammation. Unlike refined oils, cold-pressed oils are free from harmful chemicals and trans fats.
Choosing the best cold-pressed oils in India for daily cooking not only preserves nutrients but also aligns with Ayurvedic principles of using pure, natural foods. These oils help improve cholesterol levels, boost immunity, and promote overall wellness naturally. Including healthy cooking oils like cold-pressed varieties in your kitchen is a smart way to nourish your body and enjoy authentic Indian flavours every day.
How cold-pressed oils reduce heart-related issues
The best cold-pressed oils in India support heart health by preserving essential fatty acids and antioxidants that reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. These healthy fats help lower bad LDL cholesterol and increase good HDL cholesterol, boosting blood flow and reducing the risk of heart disease. Including the best cold-pressed oils in India in your diet is a natural way to protect your heart.
Health-enhancing properties with balanced fats
Healthy cold-pressed oils are rich in balanced fats like monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), including omega-3 and omega-6, known for supporting heart health. MUFAs help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) while maintaining good cholesterol (HDL). PUFAs aid in maintaining cell membrane health and preventing blood clots. These oils also retain antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect the body from oxidative stress. Phytosterols in cold-pressed oils help block cholesterol absorption in the intestines. The right balance of MUFA to PUFA supports flexible, healthy blood vessels, reducing cardiovascular risk. Compared to refined oils, cold-pressed varieties preserve these nutrients and natural compounds better, making them a heart-friendly cooking choice. Daily consumption of 20-30 grams of healthy cold-pressed oils is recommended by health experts for supporting cardiovascular wellness and overall health.
Fatty acid composition
Cold-pressed canola oil contains around 61% monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), mainly oleic acid, which helps stabilize cholesterol levels. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) make up about 32%, with 21% linoleic acid (omega-6) and 11% alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). This offers a near-perfect 2:1 omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, which helps reduce inflammation. Saturated fats remain low, under 7%, minimizing risks of artery hardening. This balanced fatty acid profile supports heart health by managing cholesterol and reducing inflammation naturally.
Vitamin and antioxidant content
Cold-pressed oils are a rich source of natural vitamin E, providing around 10 to 20 mg per 100 grams depending on the oil type. This vitamin E, mainly in the form of tocopherols, acts as a powerful antioxidant protecting cells from oxidative damage. These oils also contain plant sterols, often ranging from 100 to 300 mg per serving, which help block the absorption of dietary cholesterol. Together, these nutrients support healthy arteries by reducing oxidative stress and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Cold-pressed oils retain these vital nutrients better than refined oils, making them a heart-healthy choice for everyday cooking.
Smoke point and cooking stability
Cold-pressed canola oil has a high smoke point of around 200-220°C, making it safe for high-heat cooking common in Indian kitchens like frying and sautéing. This means the oil doesn’t start to burn or break down easily when heated, maintaining its nutritional value and flavour. Its stability at cooking temperatures helps prevent harmful substances like trans fats and acrylamide from forming in fried foods. Such qualities make cold-pressed canola oil a healthy choice for daily cooking without compromising heart health. Other oils, like mustard and sunflower, also have high smoke points and stability, while oils like extra virgin olive oil, with a lower smoke point, are better for low to medium heat cooking to preserve their health benefits.
Jivo’s Best Cold-Pressed Oils in India
Jivo is known for offering the best cold-pressed oils in India. It focuses on delivering pure, nutrient-rich edible oils made from seeds sourced from certified sustainable farms. Jivo processes the seeds quickly after harvest using cold-press methods to keep the oils fresh and full of healthy fats like MUFA and PUFA. Their oils are fortified with vitamins A and D to support immunity and bone health. As India’s leading distributor of cold-pressed canola oil, Jivo ensures every batch meets high-quality standards confirmed by independent lab testing. The brand aims to make healthy cooking oils easily accessible for homes across India, combining traditional goodness with modern quality control.
Pure cold-pressing process
The best cold-pressed oils in India are extracted mechanically without heat or chemicals guarantees zero solvent residue. Hydraulic presses operate below 45 degrees Celsius, retaining delicate compounds. This method yields oil that stays fresh longer naturally.
Fortified with vitamins A and D
What makes cold-pressed oils healthy is the vitamin fortification. Added vitamin A supports vision and skin health, while vitamin D aids calcium absorption crucial in winter sunlight scarcity. Fortification follows FSSAI guidelines without altering taste or texture.
Versatile for Indian cooking
The best and healthy cold-pressed oils are light in texture which suits sautéing vegetables, preparing gravies, or baking snacks. It absorbs less during frying, resulting in crispier yet healthier outcomes.
Nationwide availability and trust
Stocked in major retail chains, online platforms, and local stores, Jivo ensures easy access. Customer reviews highlight consistent quality and heart health improvements.
Jivo stands as the best cold-pressed oil in India for those prioritizing wellness without compromising on flavour.
Conclusion
This winter 2025, choose home-cooked meals prepared with the best cold-pressed oils in India for a heart-healthy lifestyle. Among these, canola oil is widely recognized for its heart-friendly benefits and global acclaim. Jivo’s cold-pressed canola oil is a trusted healthy cooking oil in India, known for its purity and nutritional value. When used in moderation as part of a balanced diet, it can help protect your heart during the colder months. Embrace the best and healthy cold-pressed oils in India this season to cook confidently and care for your heart.