Why You Should Consume Olive Oil

I will never forget the first time I saw an Olive Tree. It was when we were living in Albania and I was awe struck. Olive trees grow in an abundance in Albania and they did not understand my surprise when I commented on affordable it was.

One day during our Albanian lessons, our teachers husband brought us a liter of Olive oil. It turns out that he had his own olive trees that had been passed down in his family! He once took me to see his families farm and it was lined with olive trees. He told me that his father actually takes a tbs of olive oil every day in the morning for his health.

My Albanian tutor also explained to me that olive oil can be used topically for skin and hair health. I will share some recipes she gave me in another post!

But for now, let’s ask the question: what are the health benefits of olive oil?

Olive oil is not only a delicious and versatile cooking ingredient, but it also offers numerous health benefits. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are considered healthy fats that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.

One of the key health benefits of olive oil is its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains a compound called oleocanthal, which has been shown to have similar effects to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in reducing inflammation. Regular consumption of olive oil may help alleviate symptoms of chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

Olive oil is also a great source of antioxidants, which help protect the body against oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants, including vitamin E and phenolic compounds, have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

Olive oil has also been associated with improved cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that a diet rich in olive oil can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. The monounsaturated fats in olive oil may also improve blood lipid profiles by increasing levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and reducing levels of bad cholesterol (LDL).

In addition to its heart-healthy benefits, olive oil may also aid in weight management. Despite being high in calories, the monounsaturated fats in olive oil can help increase feelings of fullness and reduce appetite, potentially leading to lower calorie intake overall.

When choosing olive oil, it's important to opt for extra virgin olive oil, as it is the least processed and retains the highest levels of beneficial compounds. It's also worth noting that olive oil is best used in its raw form or for low-heat cooking, as high heat can degrade its nutritional properties.

Incorporating olive oil into your diet can provide a range of health benefits, from reducing inflammation and protecting against chronic diseases to promoting cardiovascular health and aiding in weight management.

Even though it is sometimes talked down upon because it is rich in fat, do not be afraid of olive oil! Go ahead and drizzle some extra virgin olive oil on your salads, use it as a dip for bread, or add it to your favorite recipes for a tasty and nutritious boost.