Olive Oil Diet

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated oleic acid. This fatty acid is believed to have many beneficial effects and is a healthy choice for cooking.

Extra virgin olive oil is loaded with antioxidants, some of which have powerful biological effects.

Olive oil contains nutrients that fight inflammation. These include oleic acid as well as the antioxidant oleocanthal.

Several large studies demonstrate that people who consume olive oil have a much lower risk of stroke, the second biggest killer in developed countries.

Extra virgin olive oil has numerous benefits for heart health. It lowers blood pressure, protects “bad” LDL cholesterol particles from oxidation and improves the function of blood vessels.

Some studies suggest that olive oil may combat Alzheimer’s disease, but more research is needed.

Both observational studies and clinical trials suggest that olive oil, combined with a Mediterranean diet, can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes.

Preliminary evidence suggests that olive oil may reduce cancer risk, but further studies are needed.

Olive oil can help reduce joint pain and swelling from rheumatoid arthritis. Extra virgin olive oil has antibacterial properties and has been found to be particularly effective against Helicobacter pylori, a type of bacterium that can cause stomach ulcers and stomach cancer.

Make Sure to Get the Right Type

Buying the right kind of olive oil is extremely important.

Extra virgin olive oil retains some of the antioxidants and bioactive compounds from olives. For this reason, it’s considered healthier than the more refined variety of olive oil.

Even so, there is a lot of fraud on the olive oil market, as many oils that read “extra virgin” on the label have been diluted with other refined oils.

Therefore, examine labels carefully to ensure you’re getting real extra virgin olive oil. It’s always a good idea to read ingredients lists and check for quality certification.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, quality extra virgin olive oil is incredibly healthy. Due to its powerful antioxidants, it benefits your heart, brain, joints and more.

In fact, it may be the healthiest fat on the planet.