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What Is Olive Oil and What are the Health Benefits?
Olive oil, as we all know, is an essential fruit oil, which we get from the olive tree crop found mainly in the Mediterranean regions.
Various types of this oil include the following:
Virgin Olive Oil: This variety is used for cooking with a lower acid content.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is a much better variety and is made by cold pressing the olive fruit.
Pure Olive Oil: This type is a combination of refined and virgin oils. It contains a highly acidic content.
Health Benefits of Olive Oil
Reduces Heart Problems
The natural olive oil contains 70% monounsaturated fatty acid. As a result, it lowers cholesterol accumulation in the blood and reduces heart problems.
Lowers Cholesterol Levels
LDL cholesterol is the bad type of cholesterol, which increases the risk of heart attacks and pulmonary heart diseases. Extra virgin olive oil, which is rich in almost 40 antioxidant chemicals, helps reduce the oxidation effects of LDL cholesterol. It also helps increase the HDL cholesterol levels.
Weight Loss
Medical experts suggest that it is very difficult to gain weight from the mono-unsaturated fats present in olive oil. Research on Mediterranean olive oil has shown positive results with regards to using it for weight loss.
Boosts Metabolism
Olive oil boosts the metabolism, the growth of good bone structure, and brain development in children. It is an excellent source of vitamin E, which is very beneficial for older people.
Prevents Inflammation
Olive oil is rich in phenols that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Improves Digestion
Olive oil is known to aid in the digestive process. It is used as a medicinal oil to clean the digestive tract and improve bowel movements.
Delays Aging
Rich in antioxidants, olive oil slows the natural aging process of the human body. Used in cosmetic products and natural herbal therapy, it does wonders for the skin by giving it a natural shine.
Prevents Gallstones
Use of olive oil is also effective in preventing gallstones.
Strengthens Cell Walls
Olive oil contains polyphenols which help in building stronger cell walls. It also increases the elasticity of arterial walls, protecting you against various heart conditions.
Reduces Risk of Cancer
Olive oil is said to protect the human body against cancerous growth, especially bowel cancer.
Prevents Breast Cancer
A recent research study suggests that hydroxytyrosol, a major component of olive oil may help prevent breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
Lowers Hypertension
A recent research study suggests that a Mediterranean diet comprising of food rich in unsaturated fats (found in olive oil and nuts), nitrite, and nitrate (found in leafy green vegetables) may help protect you from hypertension.
Article from : Organic Facts