Is ‘True’ Olive Oil Better Than We Ever Thought Possible?

By now, we’re sure you’re fully aware of the health benefits of oil, specifically Olive Oil. It turns out this tasty and irresistible fat is amazing for more than just heart health. Did you know olives and Olive Oil are an outstanding source of vitamin E and contain vitamins A and K, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium?

Additionally, Olive Oil, is also a great source of amino acids! Thanks to all the vitamins and minerals, Olive Oil works outstanding on yours eyes, skin, bone, and cell health as well as immune function.

Below are a few fun interesting facts about olives and Olive Oil, and a little more about how consuming can improve help improve your health according to research put together by the International Olive Council.

Olive Oil Benefits and Fun Facts 

  • Olives are generally created of 18 to 28 percent oil
  • On average, approximately 75 percent of that oil is heart healthy monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA)
  • Olive Oil facilitates overall digestion and absorption of nutrients, including essential fat-soluble vitamins
  • Olive Oil is naturally cholesterol-, sodium- and carbohydrate-free
  • While most individuals believe deep green Olive Oil indicates a higher quality, color is not a factor. Rather, greener oils come from green olives (black olives yield pale oil)
  • Olive Oil’s smoke point (410 degrees Fahrenheit) is high enough to withstand stir-frying. Normal Olive Oil, not Extra Virgin Olive Oil, is best for frying due in part to its high oleic acid (a MUFA) content.
  • 98 percent of the world’s Olive Oil production comes from just 17 countries
  • In folk medicine, Olive Oil has been used for every thing from reducing muscle aches and hangovers, to use as an aphrodisiac, laxative, and sedative
  • Olive oil coats, rather than penetrates, so foods fried in Olive Oil are less greasy than foods dried in other oil varieties
  • When stored in a cool, dark place, Olive Oil can keep for two years or more

Other Great Uses For Olive Oil

  • Cut cholesterol in your favorite recipes by substituting one egg white plus a teaspoon of olive oil for one whole egg
  • Extend the life of your cakes by using Olive Oil. Mainly because of vitamin E, olive oil extends the freshness of baked goods
  • Use Olive Oil for a salty topping to cut empty calories and get a fiber boost
  • Top fish or chicken with a simple olive tapenade
  • Use Olive Oil on your morning toast, in baked or mashed potatoes, or drizzle on corn on the cob instead of butter
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