Raipur Cancer Surgeon Warns Families: Reusing Cooking Oil Is a Dangerous Habit

A senior cancer surgeon from Raipur has issued a strong warning about a kitchen habit that many Indian families follow without thinking twice. Dr. Jayesh Sharma, an oncologist with more than two decades of experience, says that reusing cooking oil after deep-frying is one of the most dangerous practices happening in Indian homes today. He explained that while people believe they are saving money, they are actually harming their bodies in ways they cannot see. His message is simple: your health is worth more than the leftover oil stored in the kitchen.

Dr. Sharma shared his warning on social media, explaining why people must stop reheating and reusing used cooking oil. According to him, when oil is heated multiple times, it forms toxic compounds such as aldehydes, free radicals, and trans fat. These harmful elements enter the food and then enter the body, slowly damaging cells and even affecting DNA. Over time, this increases the risk of cancer, heart disease, and many other health problems. Even though the oil may look safe to use, the damage inside it is invisible but extremely dangerous.

He explained that Indian households treat leftover oil with great care as if it were something very valuable. After frying puris, pakoras, samosas, or snacks, the remaining oil is stored and used again. But every time oil is reheated, it becomes more toxic. Thickening, darkening, and a burnt smell are common signs, yet the real harm comes from chemical changes that the eyes cannot detect. These changes lead to inflammation inside the body, blocked arteries, high cholesterol, and greater cancer risk. Even people who seem healthy on the outside may be suffering from hidden damage caused by reused oil.

Dr. Sharma said that if someone absolutely must reuse oil, mustard oil and groundnut oil may be slightly less harmful compared to other types. However, he still advised that even these should not be reused after deep frying. No matter the type, once oil is overheated and reused repeatedly, it becomes harmful. He encouraged people to use smaller amounts of oil, choose fresher batches, and adopt healthier cooking methods such as steaming, grilling, or baking instead of deep frying.

According to him, the habit of reusing oil is not really saving money. Instead, it increases the chances of expensive hospital visits later in life. Diseases linked to reused oil come quietly and slowly, and most people do not realize the cause until major symptoms appear. The doctor urged families to make small changes today so they can protect their long-term health. Avoiding reused oil, preparing food in safer ways, and being mindful of what enters the body can prevent many serious illnesses.

Dr. Sharma ended his message by reminding people that health should always come before savings. Throwing away used oil may feel like a loss, but protecting the body is far more important. The true cost of reusing oil is paid by the heart, the cells, and the future. His warning encourages every household to think carefully about this common habit and to choose safety over savings.