We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: olive oil is amazing. And it’s not just us saying it. Study after study keeps proving the great benefits of olive oil. This 100% vegetable fat is packed with monounsaturated fatty acids and natural antioxidants that are even better for you than you thought.
Low cholesterol
Olive oil is made up mainly of oleic oil, a monounsaturated fatty acid that not only boosts good cholesterol (HDL), but also helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL). Why is this so important? Well, while HDL transports cholesterol to the liver to be removed from the body, LDL takes it from the liver to tissues in the body, where it builds up in your artery walls and can eventually cause thrombosis, heart attacks and strokes.
Healthy heart
As you can see, olive oil is a boon for cardiovascular health. But it can also help combat diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. Together with cholesterol, these three issues top the risk rankings for heart and circulatory-system diseases.
Protection against cell ageing
Another fantastic benefit of olive oil is its antioxidant power. Its polyphenols help combat free radicals and cell oxidation. Since ageing is nothing more than oxidation, at least we can age healthily!
Reduced breast cancer
“Four tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil a day can help cut the risk of breast cancer by two-thirds.” This is one of the findings of the PREDIMED study on Mediterranean Diet–based Prevention. Olive oil helps slow the growth of incipient malignant cells, making it a great ally in preventive fights, thanks to its anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
Improved digestion
Olive oil is also great for gastric, pancreatic and biliary secretion. It helps digestive transit and improves pains linked to sporadic acid reflux. If you experience repeated acid reflux, though, you should see a doctor, as it could be a symptom of more serious diseases linked to the digestive system.
