Hidden Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

As a staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil protects against heart disease, arthritis, inflammation, and aging skin. There are a lot more benefits of olive oil that we never knew. You can read more about it in an article titled “The Amazing Health Benefits Of Olive Oil” This oil’s powerful protection helps reduce the effects of aging and prevent death. It is an important component of a long-term longevity diet. Although olive oil is not new, the health benefits of its use are greatest when avoiding butter and related products. This is especially true of extra virgin olive oil, which has higher levels of anti-inflammatory polyphenols. Is inflammation harmful? It has been linked to chronic disease and premature death. Now, let’s take a look at the benefits of extra virgin olive oil to our health.

Improves Cardiovascular Health

How does it affect our cardiovascular system? Studies have shown that it lowers cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). “Hydroxytyrosol, one of the most important polyphenols in olive oil, protects blood vessel cells from over-reactive oxygen molecules. Hydroxytyrosol protects blood vessel cells by activating genetic changes”. I find it amazing that genetic changes can occur. We are still discovering the effectiveness of this oil. The oil lowers cholesterol and protects cells from damage.

Helps Prevent Cancer

Is it possible to prevent cancer with this oil? According to a study by Life Extension, this oil can reduce the risk of several types of cancer. It contains oleic acid, which may interfere with the activation of genes involved in cancer. It suppresses the HER2 breast cancer gene and has been shown to prevent breast cancer cells. It turns off the proteins that cancer cells depend on to survive and multiply. Moreover, it also suppresses cancer growth genes. This is especially important for women.

Enhances Hair Health

Olive oil has many benefits beyond the skin. Olive oil can promote hair growth when applied directly to the skin. Olive oil is good for hair because it contains monounsaturated fats (and antioxidants) that moisturize, protect and nourish hair. Healthy hair is strong and can be styled to any length. Olive oil draws moisture to the hair shaft, which promotes shine. Olive oil conditions and improves hair elasticity and prevents strands from breaking easily.

Reduces Skin Aging

There is preliminary evidence that the oil can reduce skin aging. However, more research is needed before concrete conclusions can be drawn. Life Extension reports that scientists have linked the oleocanthal found in olive oil to a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This is because the brain transfers more protein. This is a promising benefit that could lead to an oil-based treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

When I started the Mediterranean diet, my olive oil consumption increased. Instead of steaming vegetables, I now fry them with olive oil. Olive oil and balsamic vinegar are my go-to salad dressings. I also use the oil for dipping sourdough. The ripening process adds sodium to the olives while removing most of the polyphenols. Studies show that daily consumption of 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil is acceptable, but it shouldn’t be a big change in your regular diet. It may seem strange to start with oil, but it is important for your health and longevity.