Olive oil is made from the fruit of the olive tree, which is naturally high in healthy fatty acids.
There are several types of olive oil on the market today, including extra virgin olive oil, virgin olive oil and regular olive oil—but research shows that extra virgin olive oil benefits are more abundant than the other varieties.
So, let’s take a look at these 5 health benefits of extra virgin olive oil:
Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1) Works as an anti-inflammatory
Oleocanthal is a specific phenolic compound found in extra virgin olive oil and is said to be responsible for the burning or tingling sensation that is experienced when tasting a high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
The phenols present in olive oil have anti-inflammatory properties, and as such can have similar effects to painkillers and fever reducers.
2) Boosts hair and skin health
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in Vitamin E. Each tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil has about 1.9 mg of Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that can protect the body against eye and skin problems and in fact make hair and skin much healthier.
3) Aids in the prevention of diabetes
A diet high in olive oil, low in saturated fats, somewhat high in carbohydrates, and soluble fibre from fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains has been shown to be the most efficient for diabetics.
It improves blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity while lowering “bad” low-density lipoproteins.
4) Protect against insulin resistance
Vitamin K, another fat-soluble vitamin with a strong influence on the blood, is found in extra virgin olive oil.
It is required for proper coagulation and calcium levels in the blood.
One tablespoon of olive oil per day provides 10% of the daily necessary Vitamin K consumption and can help protect against insulin resistance and certain types of cancer.
5) Reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes
Natural olive oil has a monounsaturated fatty acid content of 70%. As a result, cholesterol levels in the blood are reduced, and cardiac troubles are lowered.
Furthermore, olive oil lowers the risk of diabetes and atherosclerosis.
Olive oil indeed has unrivalled health benefits, and research is revealing new ones almost every day.
The Mediterranean diet relies heavily on olive oil, which is a vital nutrient for the world’s longest-living cultures.
So, how can we make extra virgin olive oil as a part of our diet? As a Malaysian, it might be a bit weird to consume olive oil just like that, right?
No worries, because believe it or not, here’s an olive oil drink recipe that will definitely quench your thirst!
Iced Honey Lemon Extra Virgin Olive Oil Drink Recipe
Iced Honey Lemon Extra Virgin Olive Oil drink recipe by a social media influencer, @dr.afl from Instagram is a really good and easy way to start. Try it today, mummies!
Homemade Iced Honey Lemon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 Lemon
- 1 tbsp Honey
Instructions
- Slice a lemon into half.
- Add in lemon slices into a glass.
- Add one tablespoon of honey.
- Then, add a tablespoon of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
- Add some water and ice.
- Finally, stir well and it is ready to be served!
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