Health benefits of Olive Oil

The health benefits of olive oil are extensive with new positive attributes discovered all the time. One prominent cardiologist recommends at least two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil each day to enjoy the many ways olive oil can be beneficial to your health and well being.

Olive Oil has also been found to be effective in fighting against diseases such as:

Cancer: The phytonutrients in olive oil, oleocanthal, mimics the effect of  reducing inflammation, which can decrease the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence. Squalene and lignans are among the other olive oil components being studied for their possible effects on cancer.

Heart Disease: Olive oil helps lower levels of blood cholesterol leading to heart disease.

Oxidative Stress: Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin E, long thought to minimise cancer risk. Among plant oils, olive oil is the highest in monounsaturated fat, which doesn’t oxidise in the body, and it’s low in polyunsaturated fat, the kind that does oxidise.

Blood Pressure: Regular consumption of olive oil can help decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Diabetes:  A diet that is rich in olive oil, low in saturated fats, moderately rich in carbohydrates and soluble fiber from fruit, vegetables, pulses and grains is the most effective approach for diabetics. It helps lower blood sugar control and enhances insulin sensitivity.

Obesity: Although high in calories, olive oil has shown to help reduce levels of obesity.

Rheumatoid Arthritis:  people with diets containing high levels of olive oil are less likely to develop rheumatiod arthritis.

Osteoporosis: A high consumption of olive oil appears to improve bone mineralisation and calcification. It helps calcium absorption and so plays an important role in aiding sufferers and in preventing the onset of Osteoporosis.

Olive Oil Might Help Prevent Strokes
Olive Oil Diet Reduces Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Olive Oil Keeps the Heart Young
Olive Oil Fights Osteoporosis

Olive oil Tips: 
* use in cold or medium-heat dishes only (its not very heat-stable)
* use virgin olive oil
* use in moderation - oil is good but fats are still 9cals/gram
* balance out with polyunstarated fats (omega-3/fish oils, flax seed oil, walnuts) and saturated fats (coconut oil, meats, eggs)

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About Balvinder Kaur