Olive Oil is often referred to as Extra Virgin Olive Oil because of all the health benefits it offers. This extra virgin oil classification refers to olive oil that has been mechanically extracted from the olives without heat or chemical treatment.
The International Olive Council and USDA also require brands to adhere to the standards for oils that are labelled with extra-virgin olive oil. However, it is always a good idea do some research on the brand you're considering buying as these standards may not be enforced consistently.
This has often led to fraud in the Olive Oil industry. Some Olive Oil suppliers will dilute extra-virgin olive oil with cheaper oils in order to increase their profits. You may now be wondering, "What makes Extra Virgin Olive Oil so healthful?"
Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
Because of their heart health benefits, monounsaturated fats are a great healthy fat to include in your daily diet.
Olive Oil contains 73 percent olive oil fat, which is a Monounsaturated Fats type. Olive Oil may also help to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, protect LDL cholesterol and prevent unwanted blood flow.
Olive Oil Is A Great Anti-Inflammatory
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is high in antioxidants. Particularly, extra virgin olive oil is rich in polyphenols. These act as antioxidants and have potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil has some anti-inflammatory properties. Most fats cause more inflammation. Additionally, many of the same antioxidants polyphenols have exceptional anti-inflammatory properties.
Olive Oil Has Great Digestive Health Benefits
Both human and test tube evidence suggests that Olive Oil may have antibacterial properties. This is especially true for Helicobacter Pylori.
This bacteria lives in the stomach, and can cause stomach cancer and ulcers. One human study found that regular consumption of 30g of Extra Virgin Olive Oil can reduce Helicobacter Pylori infection by 10% to 40% in just two weeks.
Olive Oil Is A Great Cancer Fighter
A few studies also found that people who eat a diet high in Olive Oil are less likely to develop upper digestive tract cancers such as small intestinal and stomach.
Studies have shown that people who consume olive oil daily have lower rates of certain types of cancer. Antioxidants in Olive Oil could help to prevent free radicals, which are thought to be the leading cause of cancer.
Olive Oil Is Great For Rheumatoid Arthritis
People with RA who eat a balanced diet of olive oil and other healthy foods have seen a reduction in inflammation markers and a decrease in oxidative stress. This is especially true if olive oil supplementation includes fish oil.
One study found that people who took olive oil and fish oils together had significantly less joint pain, greater grip strength, and lower morning stiffness.
Olive Oil Has Essential Cognitive Benefits
The Mediterranean diet has many benefits, including improved function among seniors. Research is ongoing to determine the importance of olive oil in this process, which is an important component of the Mediterranean diet.
Recent animal research suggests that olive oil may be beneficial during brain imbalances. This could be due to molecules moving too quickly along the blood barrier.
Some early-stage research suggests that olive oil may prevent the buildup of plaques in brain cells, which is a key feature in Alzheimer's Disease. However, further human studies are required.
