Why Our Dressing?
11 Proven Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Since the turn of the century, many young people have started to focus more on healthy eating. While some people turn towards homegrown food, GMO-free produce, and organic products, others focus on their cooking methods, such as using extra virgin olive oil. As a result, many people tend to primarily focus on the benefits of extra virgin oil.
While EVOO is considered to be a healthy cooking oil alternative to traditional vegetable oil, many people don’t understand why.
In this article, we’ll go over the benefits of extra virgin olive oil and how it can have positive effects on your physical and mental health.
Let’s jump right in.
- Large Amount of Antioxidants
- Rich in Healthy Monounsaturated Fats
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties
- Help Reduce the Risk of Strokes
- Protection Against Heart Disease
- Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
- Improve Bone Health
- Assists in Weight Loss
- Protection Against Specific Cancers
- Antibacterial Properties
- Reduced Risk of Alzheimer’s and Arthritis
Is extra-virgin olive oil extra healthy?
Many studies continue to confirm the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, which cuts the risk of heart disease and stroke. The diet’s nutritional benefits probably come from various sources, but the generous use of olive oil appears to be a key contributor.
Regardless of the type, olive oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids, containing about 75% by volume. When substituted for saturated fat, monounsaturated fats help lower your “bad” LDL cholesterol. The health benefits of olive oil have been attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, observational studies have shown a link between lower risks of cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and even dementia in people who consume higher amounts of olive oil than those who use little or none.
- By Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing
