Five Unexpected Benefits of Olive Oil

While the health benefits of dietary fats are controversial, nutritionists agree that there are several benefits that come when you use olive oil for cooking. It’s a healthy alternative to many other cooking oils like corn or canola oil—and it tastes great, too.

Here are just some of the surprisingly good reasons to use olive oil in your cooking.

Olive oil contains helpful antioxidants

One of the most important, unexpected olive oil benefits lies in its antioxidant, free radical-fighting properties. Olive oil contains modest amounts of both vitamins E and K, two powerful antioxidants. These nutrients fight harmful free radicals that roam through your body, causing damage to cells that can result in premature aging. The antioxidants in olive oil prevent free radicals from taking over, and the result is a healthier immune system, better skin health and many other important benefits.

Olive oil contains anti-inflammatory nutrients

Many substances that are rich in antioxidants are also rich in anti-inflammatory properties. Extra-virgin olive oil has been shown to reduce inflammation. One of the key nutrients in olive oil, oleocanthal, has been shown to work similarly to the anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen. It’s an all-natural way to reduce inflammation in the body.

Olive oil may prevent strokes

Strokes are serious medical events that are caused by a disturbance in blood flow to the brain. In developed nations, strokes are the second-leading cause of death. Studies have shown that olive oil is the only source of monounsaturated fat that’s associated with reduced risk of strokes. Adding olive oil to your diet may be a way to prevent strokes and other cardiovascular complications.

Olive oil does not increase the likelihood of weight gain

One of the good reasons to use olive oil in cooking is that it’s not associated with significant weight gain or obesity, even though it’s a source of fat. Research shows that following the Mediterranean diet (which is rich in olive oil) does not lead to significant weight gain. It’s a healthy way to ensure that your food still tastes delicious.

Olive oil may reduce the risk of cognitive diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease

As people age, the potential to develop Alzheimer’s disease is a major cause for concern. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cognitive disease worldwide; one of the markers for the disease is a buildup of beta-amyloid plaques within brain cells. While more research is needed, studies have shown that regular consumption of olive oil in a Mediterranean diet can have cognitive benefits that may improve brain function. Additionally, the vitamin E in olive oil is believed to reduce the risk for developing cognitive diseases.

While there are plenty of olive oil benefits that are already known, research is ongoing when it comes to the surprising advantages that accompany a diet rich in this healthy, natural oil. Of course, the quality of olive oil you use has a direct effect on not just the taste of the oil itself but also the health benefits it contains. For pure, delicious and nutritious olive oil, Liquid Manufacturing Solutions, Inc. is the only name to trust.

Categorized in: Olive Oil Benefits