Health Benefits of Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, most notably oleic acid. This has long been known to lower cholesterol and promote heart health. So just how much olive oil makes a difference to your heart? Studies have shown that an added 2 tablespoons a day can improve your LDL cholesterol.

LDL is one of the 5 major groups of lipoproteins (chylomicrons, VLDL, IDL, LDL, HDL) which enable fats and cholesterol to move within the water based solution of the blood stream. LDL also regulates cholesterol synthesis at these sites. It commonly appears in the medical setting as part of a cholesterol blood test, and since high levels of LDL cholesterol can signal medical problems like cardiovascular disease, it is sometimes called "bad cholesterol" (as opposed to HDL, the "good cholesterol").

Olive oil is also used as an anti-inflammatory. Olives are a naturally fatty food and eating any fatty food tends to slow down body functions and processes. This can be very calming as it encourages the body’s systems to function at a healthier pace.

High quality olive oil has a soothing, healing effect on the digestive system. It is known to be beneficial for the liver and the gallbladder and promotes the healthy growth of body tissue. There are reports of people using olive oil as a "tonic for the nerves."

Used cosmetically, olive oil is wonderfully healing when smoothed into dry skin. It helps heal sunburn and other skin burns, minor skin eruptions, and inflammation.

Tips to add Olive Oil into your daily diet
Fill a small condiment dish with extra virgin olive oil for use on bread, rolls, potatoes, or other vegetables. This makes a great alternative to butter.
For even more flavor, try adding a few drops of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkling of your favorite spices to the olive oil.
To get the most health benefit and flavor from your olive oil, buy and store oil in a cool, dry cabinet away from light. Add olive oil to foods immediately after cooking.

Other great ideas - check out some exciting recipes ideas on Olive Oil and Vinegars and a "how to" on Infusing Oils and Vinegars.

 

DISCLAIMER: Statements contained on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent diseases.