Benefits of Olive Oil

Olives have been harvested and made into olive oil for thousands of years. In fact, it is thought this occurred as early as 4000 BC. Olive oil has gained in popularity in the last couple of decades because of it's many health benefits. It is rich in healthy monosaturated fatty acids. Olives were originally grown in the Mediterranean and Balkans and were brought to North America in the mid-1500s. In North America, they are mainly cultivated in Peru, Mexico, Chile, Argentina, and California. There are more than one thousand varieties of olives that can be used to make olive oil. Green olives are unripe and contain more beneficial plant nutrients than black olives. Here are some other important things to know about olive oil.

Supports Brain Health

Your brain is made up of fatty acids and it needs fatty acids to function well daily. Your brain uses the fats to perform tasks, memorize, focus, and think clearly. Olive oil continues to be studied for it's ability to support healthy brain health as you age. It is thought to prevent cognitive decline and brain disorders like Alzheimer's. Another way that it supports your brain health is because of it's hormone balancing capabilities. Your mood is influenced by the hormone levels in your brain.

Supports Weight Loss

Because consuming fats helps you feel full longer, they can help reduce cravings and the urge to snack. There is evidence that being on a low-carb, high fat diet can help you loose more weight than being on a low fat diet. Another way that consuming olive oil can help you maintain a healthy weight is through it's ability to help your body maintain stable insulin levels. Insulin helps you control blood sugar levels which makes it easier to manage your weight.

Anti-Inflammatory

Chronic inflammation can lead to many health issues like achy and stiff joints, headaches, and a weakened immune system. The healthy fats and plant compounds in olive oil can help you reduce inflammation and the chances of developing a major health issue.

Heart Health

One of the most well known benefits of consuming olive oil is how it supports heart health. That is because it is rich in plant compounds and antioxidants that are anti-inflammatory and benefit the cardiovascular system. Research has shown that a diet rich in monosaturated fatty acids may support healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. People who follow the Mediterranean-style diet, which is rich in olive oil, have been shown to have a reduced risk of having a sudden cardiac event that results in death.

Buying Olive Oil

Unfortunately, due to the increased popularity of olive oil, it is thought that about 70 percent of the olive oils on the market are watered down with other oils. So the best type of olive oil to buy is organic extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) that has been independently tested and verified to be pure. EVOO is made from the first cold pressing of the olives and contains the most intact fatty acids and plant compounds. The best olive oils are found in dark bottles and are labeled with the farm or estate name and the date of harvest.

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