Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Receiving Antioxidants Through Virgin Olive Oil

Any nutritionist will tell you the importance of antioxidants in the body. When oxygen is used in our body, free radicals that damage the body are produced as a byproduct. Antioxidants found in foods prevent this from taking place. Olive oil is a rich source of antioxidants, and helps prevent several diseases.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is that which is extracted from the first pressing of olives. It is extremely rich in antioxidants. People in the Mediterranean region use olive oil in plenty. Not only is its flavor awesome, but its health benefits are also worth noting.


Prevents Heart Diseases

According to the American Health Association, coronary health problems kill more Americans than any other disease. While butter and other forms of fat are saturated and cause heart problems, olive oil is unsaturated and offers great health benefits. Unsaturated fat is liquid at room temperature. The CARDIO2000 case-control study shows that using only olive oil reduces the risk of heart disease by half. However, this was not the case when people used other saturated forms of fat in addition to olive oil. The results were positive only for those that exclusively used olive oil.

The antioxidants in olive oil prevent heart problems and are great for your memory. If you’re worried about your heart and want a long-term solution, switch to olive oil.

Reduces Cholesterol-Related Problems

The antioxidants in olive oil produce LDL (bad cholesterol) that is less likely to be oxidized. They are less prone to damage by free radicals. The mortality rate of those that consume olive oil is lower than those whose diet consists of regular fats, such as animal products and saturated fats. This also reduces high blood pressure, as our blood vessels’ lining is safe from harm. When LDL is in excess, it forms a thick layer on the walls of our arteries, making us prone to heart attacks and strokes.

Gastrointestinal Wellbeing

When you cook meats, heterocyclic amines (HAs) are produced. These increase gastrointestinal problems, including colon cancer and ulcers. The antioxidants in olive oil reduce the amount of HAs produced by regular vegetable oils. Olive oil is ideal for those with a history of irritable or inflammatory bowels.

Diet-Conscious Oil

For those of you that are on a diet, this is the perfect oil for you. With its lower fat content, you won’t have to worry about putting on weight. You don’t have to eat bland salads anymore. Just add a pinch of olive oil to your daily food and satisfy your taste buds, while staying healthy and fit.

Practical Tips

Buy only cold olive oil and store it in opaque or tinted bottles away from direct heat or light. Make sure you buy oil that is stored in a cool place. Olive oil is best used unheated. A tablespoon of olive oil added to salads works as extra flavoring. This is an amazing way to make your kids eat those veggies! Lightly sauté your curries and then garnish with olive oil. Not only will the taste be amazing, but the nutrients will also be preserved.

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