Olive oil is good for your health in so many ways! In fact, France is one of the world’s biggest consumers of olive oil!
It’s a gem of Mediterranean cuisine, renowned for its quality and benefits. What’s more, its delicate flavor and versatility in the kitchen make it a perfect option for enhancing the flavors of dishes.
Discover the 5 health benefits of olive oil.
Olive oil is rich in healthy fats
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated oleic acid. This fatty acid has many beneficial effects and is a healthy choice for seasoning your dishes.
It is estimated that around 14% of oil is saturated fat and 11% is polyunsaturated fat such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Olive oil protects against heart disease
Of all the oils on the market, olive oil has the highest percentage of monounsaturated fats!
The good news is that these fats have the power to lower bad LDL cholesterol and increase good HDL cholesterol!
Olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties
The antioxidants present in olive oil, such as polyphenols, have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to prevent inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and certain cardiovascular conditions.
Studies suggest that oleic acid reduces inflammation and also has beneficial effects on cancer-related genes.
Another antioxidant, oleocanthal, also acts against inflammation, providing the same effects asibuprofen.
Olive oil can help prevent strokes
Several studies show that people who regularly consume olive oil have a much lower risk of stroke.
In developed countries, stroke is the second leading cause of death, just behind heart disease.
Olive oil is low in calories
Numerous studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet, rich in olive oil, has favorable effects on body weight.
One study even found that a diet rich in olive oil was linked to increased levels of antioxidants in the blood, as well as weight loss! However, like any other food, you mustn’t overdo it!