Cancer to Nutrient Loss: Things to Know Before Using an Airfryer

Air fryers have gained popularity as a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying, as they use hot air to cook food with minimal oil (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Impact of Air Frying on Cholesterol and Fatty Acids Oxidation in Sardines: Protective Effects of Aromatic Herbs

Go to source). While they do have some advantages, it's important to be aware of potential drawbacks and harmful health effects associated with air fryer use:

Harmful Health Effects of Air Fryer

1. Acrylamide Formation:

   Acrylamide is commonly found in cigarette smoke. Air frying can lead to the formation of acrylamide, a potentially harmful chemical compound that occurs when certain foods, particularly high-carbohydrate and high-protein foods, are cooked at high temperatures. Acrylamide has been associated with an increased risk of cancer in some studies

2. Nutrient Loss:

   High heat and prolonged cooking times in an air fryer can lead to the degradation of certain vitamins and antioxidants in foods, particularly sensitive nutrients like vitamin C and some B vitamins.
   
   
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   ‘The rapid circulation of hot air in the air fryer creates a Maillard reaction on the food's surface. This is what gives food that crisp without submerging it in oil #airfryer #nutriloss #medindia’
   

           
   This research found that when sardine filets are cooked in an air fryer, it can make them less healthy. It increases the formation of harmful substances called cholesterol oxidation products and reduces important healthy fats called polyunsaturated fatty acids

3. Inhalation of Harmful Compounds:

   Air fryers can release fine oil particles and cooking fumes into the air. Prolonged exposure to these particles may potentially pose respiratory health risks, especially if you have underlying respiratory conditions

4. Potential for Overconsumption:

   The appeal of air fryers is that they can make foods taste fried with less oil. However, it's still possible to over consume high-calorie and high-fat foods, which can lead to weight gain and related health issues if not eaten in moderation

5. Reduced Benefits of Healthy Frying:

   While air frying is generally healthier than deep frying, it is not without drawbacks. Traditional frying methods can still be less healthy due to the large amounts of oil used, but air frying doesn't necessarily turn unhealthy foods into health foods. If you air fry processed or highly-processed foods, the overall nutritional quality of your meal may still be compromised

It's important to use air fryers in moderation, select a variety of foods for cooking, and be mindful of the cooking times and temperatures to minimize potential harmful health effects.

Balanced eating, including a mix of cooking methods, is key to maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Reference:

1. Impact of Air Frying on Cholesterol and Fatty Acids Oxidation in Sardines: Protective Effects of Aromatic Herbs - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29125626/)

Source-Medindia