3 Amazing Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

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Oils and fats in general have been demonized by nutritionists for a very long time, but more recent studies show that good fats could actually be beneficial and even essential to good health. One of these good fats is extra virgin olive oil. What differentiates this type of olive oil from others is that it is largely unrefined, maintaining all the nutrients and some of the flavour profile of the olives it came from. It is best used as a condiment or as part of dressings but not for cooking. It is great for adding flavour to sauces and soups or used as a simple dipping sauce. But it’s also chock full of natural goodness and could help you stay healthy in a number of ways. Here are some of the amazing health benefits of extra virgin olive oil.

It’s Full of Healthy Fats and Antioxidants

A major difference between EVOO and the other types of olive oil is the extraction process. No heat or chemicals are used to extract extra virgin olive oil, which keeps all the antioxidants intact. It is said to contain over 30 different phenolic compounds, which are a special form of antioxidant that can protect the body from free radicals and cellular damage. This means that extra virgin olive oil can help slow down the aging process and ward off disease.

However, it’s also important that you know where your extra virgin olive oil comes from and how it was extracted if you want to get the benefits. The quality of the olives will also make a difference. Look for olive oil that has been cold pressed if you want the best quality.

It Could Help Prevent Diabetes

Diabetes is a major public health issue in Australia and all around the world. It is estimated that over 1 million Australians are suffering from the condition.

Diabetes is usually caused by a loss of the effectiveness of insulin, which is responsible for regulating blood glucose. However, it has been found that some of the phenolic compounds in olive oil could help restore insulin sensibility and make it more effective. One study found that adding olive oil to your daily diet could reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by as much as 12 percent.

Olive Oil Could Improve Bone Health

Olive oil could also be a contributor to better bone health as well because it has been found that olive oil could help reduce bone loss due to aging. Multiple human and animal studies found that it could help increase the breakdown of calcium, which could improve bone formation.

In one study, participants who were supplemented with extra virgin olive oil were examined for risk of bone fractures. Those who had the highest intake of extra virgin olive oil had 51 percent less risk of developing a fracture.

Olive oil is the definition of a super food and should be in everyone’s pantry. Make sure that you drizzle a little on your salads, stews and sandwiches and see what this wonderful oil has to offer.