The Health Benefits of Olive Oil

There are various important benefits from including the olive oil in our diet.

1. Firstly, olive oil has a high concentration of Monounsaturated fatty acids(MUFAs) which are considered a healthy dietary fat, as opposed to saturated fats and trans fats. In fact, it provides linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid; essential polyunsaturated fatty acids.
2. Furthermore, it may lower heart disease risk factorssuch as blood cholesterol levels and reduced LDL cholesterol oxidation. It has been associated with lower blood pressure levels and lower triglyceride levels and it could prevent the hardening of the arteries and the development of atherosclerosis.
3. A diet high in monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, has been linked with diabetes prevention.
4. Olive oil contains oleocanthal which controls inflammationand assists the immune system. Oleocanthal has also the potential to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related neurodegenerative dementias.
5. Olive Oil contains vitamins A, E and K. Vitamin E (alpha tocopherol) is an antioxidant.
6. Apart from its use as a component of our diet, olive oil is used as a cleanser, moisturizer, and antibacterial agent in cosmetic products.