Extra Virgin Olive Oil is an extremely versatile, delicious, and, of course, healthy Olive Oil. Great part about Extra Virgin Olive Oil is that you can use it to:
But what is it exactly that makes Extra Virgin Olive Oil healthy?
Antioxidants
The antioxidants in Extra Virgin Olive Oil are its claim to being so known. These phenolic compounds destroy free radicals, kill cancer cells, and as a result, reduce the risk of heart disease and increase longevity as well.
Olecocanthal
This specific phenolic compound discovered in Extra Virgin Olive Oil is said to be responsible for the tingling sensation that is experienced when tasting a premium quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Furthermore, Extra Virgin Olive Oil has anti-inflammatory properties, and as such can have comparable effects to pain-killers and fever reducers. Additionally, Extra Virgin Olive Oil can also help prevent Alzheimer’s disease and kill cancer cells; the oleocanthal clears beta-amyloid plaques from the brain.
Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFAS)
Monounsaturated fats are the type of fatty acid commonly discovered in nuts and high fatty fruits, such as olives and avocados. These types of fats are central to the Mediterranean lifestyle, and studies have displayed that they can increase the fluidity and elasticity of the cell membranes, and at about 75% MUFA content, Extra Virgin Olive Oilis an exceptional source.
The Monounsaturated fats in 1-2 tablespoons of Olive Oil per day can help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and color cancer.
Vitamin E
Each tablespoon of Extra Virgin Olive Oilhas about 1.9 mg of Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant which can assist in protecting the body against eye and skin problems and in even make hair and skin much healthier. Moreover, it has also been shown to protect the body from:
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is another fat-soluble vitamin that has its greatest effect on the blood. It is needed for healthy coagulation and the levels of calcium in the blood. 1 tablespoon of Olive Oil a day will fill an average of 10% of the daily suggested intake of Vitamin K, and can help protect against insulin resistance and a variety of types of cancer.
