Olive Oil Health Benefits
Extra virgin olive oil has been associated with the Greek history, culture and nutritional habits, but also with health and well-being in general. It became the most fundamental component of the Mediterranean lifestyle and diet. The health benefits of olive oil are unrivalled, and scientific researches reveal more nearly every day.
Many studies have been referred to the nutritional value of extra virgin olive oil, as it contains monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). MUFAs are monounsaturated fatty acids that control the insulin levels and lower LDL cholesterol levels. However, olive oil has much more nutritious components than you thought…
Nutrient Content in 100grams of olive oil
But how about antioxidants?! Olive oil shines in its content of anti-inflammatory oleocanthal & oleuropein (substance that protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation.)
Oleocanthal —natural phenolic compound in extra-virgin olive oil — helps to potent anti-inflammatory actions. Researchers have found that if we consume 4 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil can act as an anti-inflammatory drug! Chronic inflammation is the leading driver of serious diseases such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. So, they have speculated that one of the greatest health benefits of olive is its’ ability to fight grievous inflammation.