The Benefits of Using Olive Oil
By EMP180° Weight Loss
As EMP coaches, we are always stressing the importance of incorporating Extra Virgin Olive Oil into your diet. It is considered very healthy and beneficial for human health. Listed below are some of the major health benefits of adding Extra Virgin Olive Oil to your diet:
Anti-inflammatory properties
Extra Virgin Olive Oil can reduce inflammation, which is thought to be a leading driver of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes and more.
The main anti-inflammatory effects are mediated by the antioxidants—the main one being oleocanthal, which has been shown to work similarly to ibuprofen. Research also suggests that oleic acid, which is the main fatty acid in olive oil, can reduce inflammation as well.
Supports brain function
The monounsaturated fats in Extra Virgin Olive Oil help to improve focus and memory, prevent age-related cognitive decline, help us sleep better, and help fight depression. Low-fat diets have been linked to high rates of mood changes, depression, and anxiety.
A diet rich in monounsaturated fats also plays a role in preventing degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
MightyMeals has an extensive menu full of meals and snacks low in fat (15 grams or less). Here are a few of our favorites that also contain Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Improves heart health
Extra Virgin Olive Oil improves the elasticity of the arteries, which means that blood flow throughout the body will be more efficient. The more elastic the arteries are, the better the different parts of the body will be supplied with blood and oxygen in order to function properly.
The monounsaturated fats in Extra Virgin Olive Oil help to reduce LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol), improve the lining of blood vessels and may help prevent blood clotting. It has also been shown to lower blood pressure, which is one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease and premature death.
Helps prevent strokes
Extra Virgin Olive Oil can prevent atherosclerosis, which means that the risk of heart diseases like a heart attack or stroke will be reduced. Recent studies have shown that Extra Virgin Olive Oil can help prevent strokes in elderly patients.
Can help prevent and manage diabetes
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is anti-inflammatory and also helps stabilize glucose levels—both of which are highly beneficial to people with diabetes. In addition, it contains phytonutrients called polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties and provide health benefits for people with diabetes.
Helps fight osteoporosis
Extra Virgin Olive Oil has been found to be very helpful for individuals with osteoporosis. It positively affects bone thickness and is especially recommended for women after menopause when fighting postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-olive-oil#TOC_TITLE_HDR_7
https://10faq.com/health/benefits-of-olive-oil/9