The Wonder Of Olive Oil
I am sure you have heard all the information and hype about olive oil having massive health benefits. I am here to tell you that it is not hype at all, just mere fact. Here are a few of the benefits:
- Less aches, pains, and inflammation—Olive Oil contains a compound called oleocanthal which has an anti-inflammatory effect like ibuprofen but the good news is that there are no side effects. A study from Spain showed that men and women over the age of 55 who consumed olive oil for one month had decreased blood markers for inflammation, especially IFN-y and CXCL1.
- Less hunger—Since olive oil is a healthy fat, consuming olive oil stops hunger pangs. Since olive oil is a type of fat, it would seem that it would cause weight gain. On the contrary; statistics show people losing weight the first two weeks of consuming olive oil. And when you look at the research, studies show that people who consumed at least 2T of olive oil a day lost more body fat than those eating similar calories and no olive oil.
- Lower blood sugar—Along with less hunger, olive oil helps to lower blood sugar levels, helping to prevent type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. When blood sugar and insulin are lower, you are less likely to be hungry or to store calories as fat. Olive oil also reduces ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger.
- Smoother skin—Olive oil is anti-inflammatory, and this is reflected in smoother skin, less sun damage, and reduction of any redness or irritation. The antioxidants in olive oil help prevent aging of the skin, as well as fighting skin cancer. The antibacterial component of olive oil also helps to fight acne and other skin infections. Olive oil applied directly to the skin also works great as an excellent moisturizer and wrinkle fighter.
- Improved memory—Olive oil consumption has been shown to have positive effects on cognitive performance. Studies on olive oil consumption show slowed cognitive decline, and decreases in blood markers for Alzheimer’s disease, including amyloid beta proteins, tau, and p-tau.
- Improved Cholesterol—Cholesterol numbers drop, and an added benefit is lower lower levels of LDL, and triglycerides—both of which are tied to heart disease. In addition, HDL (our good cholesterol) increased. In a meta-analysis of 27 different trials with olive oil, it was found that HDL increases significantly, while LDL and triglycerides are lowered. All good for heart health and longevity.
- Better Digestion and Healthier Microbiome—Olive oil has a lot of gut health benefits. It nourishes beneficial bacteria and helps heal the gut lining. Research shows it relieves gut irritation including bloating and constipation. Certain healthy gut bacteria have positive effects on lowering cholesterol and fat loss, as well as increasing feelings of fullness.
Olive oils’ polyphenols can prevent other serious health issues. Olive oil is effective for its anti-inflammatory whole-body effects, its ability to fight and kill cancer cells, reverse fatty liver disease, protect the kidneys, and promote healthy brain and nerve function. Olive oil is effective for heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and to prevent or fight many cancers.
Olive oil is truly a powerful superfood and should be included in your diet on a regular basis. Be sure to look for “Extra Virgin, Cold Pressed” olive oil, and check the bottling date to see how fresh it is. Look for olive oil that comes in a dark tinted GLASS bottle. Avoid plastic or clear bottles. Higher quality olive oil full of polyphenols should have a rich, fruity taste and sting your throat when swallowed—this is a reflection of the amount and quality of the polyphenols it contains.
