The Shocking Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Mediterranean cultures have used extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments. The past few years have seen a surge in the popularity of EVOO in the United States as more and more people are becoming aware of its many health benefits.

Recent studies have shown that EVOO can help protect against heart disease, stroke, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and other chronic conditions.

EVOO is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, leading to inflammation and disease.

So how good is extra-virgin olive oil for you? And how much should you be consuming? Read on to learn more about how EVOO can impact your health!

What is Extra-Virgin Olive Oil?

Extra-virgin olive oil is made from the first cold pressing of olives and has higher acidity than other types of olive oil. It is also less processed and has a higher concentration of antioxidants.

This type of olive oil is also the most expensive and has a distinct, pungent flavor. Having been used by Mediterranean cultures for centuries, EVOO is now gaining popularity in the United States as more people become aware of its many health benefits.

The Health Benefits of Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

There are a variety of health benefits associated with consuming extra-virgin olive oil.

1. EVOO can help protect against heart disease.

The main type of fat found in olive oil is monounsaturated fat, which has been shown to lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels and raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels.

Studies have also shown that olive oil can help reduce blood pressure and the risk of developing atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries. This works by preventing the formation of blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

2. EVOO may help protect against cancer.

The antioxidants found in olive oil can help protect cells from damage that can lead to cancer. Studies have shown that olive oil can help reduce the risk of developing breast, colon, and endometrial cancer.

3. EVOO may help protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

The polyphenols found in olive oil can help to protect the brain from the damage that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease. 

One study found that people who consumed a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil were much less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those who did not consume this type of diet.

4. EVOO can help to improve cognitive function.

Studies have shown that the antioxidants found in olive oil can help to improve cognitive function and protect against age-related cognitive decline. Those who consume a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil have a significantly lower risk of developing cognitive impairment than those who did not consume this type of diet. 

How Much is Too Much?

Even though extra-virgin olive oil has many health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation. This is because olive oil is a calorie-dense food that can contribute to weight gain if consumed excessively.

The American Heart Association recommends consuming no more than two tablespoons (23 grams) of olive oil per day.

When choosing EVOO, look for a product with a high polyphenol content (indicated by a pungent flavor) and check the label to see where and how the olives were harvested and processed.

Consider buying olive oil from a reputable source that can guarantee the quality of their product.

Add EVOO to Your Life Strategically

Extra-virgin olive oil has many health benefits but should be consumed in moderation because it is calorie-dense. 

When choosing EVOO, look for a product with a high polyphenol content (indicated by a pungent flavor) and check the label to see where and how the olives were harvested and processed.

Add EVOO to your diet strategically by using it in place of other oils, such as vegetable oil, when cooking. You can also drizzle it over salads or use it in homemade salad dressings. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way – you only need a small amount of EVOO to enjoy its many benefits.

If you want to learn more about how EVOO and other healthy fats can improve your health, partner with Dr. Khan at Internal Healing and Wellness. As The Woodlands’ leading functional medicine doctor, Dr. Khan can develop a personalized nutrition plan that is tailored to your unique needs and goals.

To schedule a consultation, contact us today. We can help you learn more about how to incorporate healthy fats like EVOO into your diet and improve your overall health.