Olive oil is extracted from the fruits of the olive trees; they’re pressed to extract the oil from the fruits, which is an ancient and organic method. But nowadays, it involves crushing the olives, mixing them, and separating oil from the pulp with the help of appliances.
Studies show that fatty acids and antioxidants present in olive oil promote good health and reduce cancer, stroke, and heart diseases. The extra virgin type of oil is considered the healthiest oil and extracted in the most natural way possible. Its taste and smell can categorize a good quality oil; the pure oil has a distinct flavor, aroma, and texture.
That means it contains a very high number of antioxidants and will be most beneficial for your overall health. Here are some fantastic benefits of olive oil that contribute to achieving a healthy body.
15 Amazing Benefits Of Olive Oil
1. Is Filled With Antioxidants
Olive oil is loaded with antioxidants and contains enormous amounts of vitamins E and vitamin K.
These antioxidants help you fight many diseases and are biologically active in your body mostly all the time. Regular use of the oil may help you fight many chronic diseases related to the heart. It also fights inflammation and helps to protect blood cholesterol from getting oxidized.
2. May Help With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis means unbelievably painful joints, which can also lead to deformation. According to a study, olive oil was shown to significantly help with the pain that accompanies this autoimmune disease.
Consuming it dramatically helps your inflammatory markers, making it something everyone suffering from rheumatoid arthritis must consume along with fish oil and other beneficial foods.
3. Helps Those With Type2 Diabetes
Olive oil has proven beneficial for people who have type2 diabetes, and it helps regulate primary blood sugar levels along with insulin sensitivity. According to a random clinical trial, people were advised to consume a Mediterranean diet dominated by olive oil.
The trial was done on 418 people, and by all means, olive oil showed protective effects. A diet rich in oil reduced the risk of type2 diabetes by over 40%.
4. Contains Anti-Cancer Properties
Cancer is one of the most chronic medical conditions and the cause of many deaths worldwide. Many test-tube studies claim that compounds present in olive oil are beneficial in fighting cancer cells.
People who consume a Mediterranean diet have a lower risk for cancer as their diet is mainly dominated by olive oil. The antioxidants present in olive oil reduce oxidative damage, which is primarily responsible for cancer.
5. May Helps Fight Alzheimer’s
Olive oil improves brain function and fights the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Although the research cannot be termed conclusive, several positive results mean that it may help and is in no way harmful.
6. May Help With Depression
Of course, no food can be labeled as the cure or even a fix for depression. However, as we have seen, olive oil contributes to better brain function. Not only that, it is an unsaturated fat in nature, which means it doesn’t contribute to making the situation worse.
Diet impacts depression; that is a proven fact. Therefore, it is crucial to intake food that will not aggravate the problem and leave you feeling healthy.
7. Has Anti-Bacterial Properties
Ingesting olive oil will help your body fight and even kill harmful bacteria that cause stomach ulcers and even stomach cancer. A great way to fight off such bacteria, some of which are even resistant to medicines, is to ingest this excellent oil.
Remember, you can always swallow a teaspoon of the oil if you are not used to using it in your recipes.
8. Prevents Obesity
Olive oil has not shown any signs of weight gain in people consuming it for a very long time; instead, it shows signs of a healthy body in an individual. Many studies prove that people who consume an olive oil-rich diet do not experience weight gain, but experience increased antioxidants, better heart health, and promoted good cholesterol.
So, people claiming olive oil can make you fat or unhealthy are all just myths.
9. Promotes Heart Health
Heart diseases and strokes are again prevalent reasons for death among people around the world. Studies prove that the risk of heart disease is way less in Mediterranean people as they consume an olive oil-rich diet.
Extra virgin olive oil is the main ingredient of their diet and lifestyle, which helps protect their heart health in many ways. It helps lower the level of bad cholesterol and improves the lining of blood vessels, which prevents blood clotting.
Research also claims that regular use of olive oil may also reduce the need of consuming medication for blood pressure by 48%.
10. May Prevent Strokes
According to the World Health Organisation, strokes are scary and are the second most common cause of death in developed nations.
According to a study, olive oil was the sole source of monounsaturated fat linked to a lower risk of stroke and heart disease. Therefore, making sure there is some olive oil intake, be it a salad or as a substitute in regular recipes, will significantly help reduce the risk of having a stroke.
11. Acts As A Great Moisturiser
Suppose you are looking for a natural moisturizer that will soften and hydrate your skin without any adverse effects from chemicals found in lotions or moisturizers in the market. In that case, olive oil is the way to go.
Using the oil right after you take a bath when your skin is slightly damp will ensure smooth and soft skin that isn’t greasy or harmful in any manner.
12. Promotes Hair Health
Besides being good for your system and skin, olive oil has excellent benefits for your hair as well. Being high in antioxidants prevents cell damage and maintains the health of your scalp, roots, and length of your hair. It does wonders for those with thick hair who need that extra conditioning and nourishment.
13. Enhances Taste
We have seen how using olive oil has several benefits to our body and mind. However safe and beneficial as it may be, it is tough to eat something that doesn’t appeal to us, especially if it’s daily. Thankfully, this fantastic oil not only tastes good but also enhances the flavors of the dishes you use it in! Olive oil, however, tastes best with continental dishes!
14. Helps Improves Nail Health
Green smoothies: are they healthy? The answer is yes. The following vegetables should always be included in your diet because they contain fiber, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. With Green Smoothies, you get your daily dose of vegetables in a delicious way.
15. Helps Heal Cracked Heels
Make sure you put your best foot forward by using olive oil on your cracked heels. You can add moisture and smoothness to your heels by gently exfoliating them with hot lemon water, followed by applying olive oil to them.
Conclusion
Not only is olive oil popular in the kitchen, but it also plays an important role in cosmetics. However, some people may experience allergic reactions to this oil, and excessive consumption may increase heart disease risk. Therefore, if you are experiencing any symptoms of an emergency, consult your doctor.
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