What are the Health Benefits of Olive Oil?
Olive oil, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is a type of monounsaturated fat that is packed with antioxidants and other healthy compounds. It is considered the queen of fats, and health experts agree that incorporating olive oil into your diet can offer a myriad of benefits for your overall health.
Research suggests that consuming olive oil can provide the following health benefits:
- Relief from constipation
- Reduced risk of dying from dementia
- Lowered risk of cardiovascular diseases
- Decreased risk of dying from cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and respiratory diseases
Relief from Constipation
Constipation, which can cause infrequent or uncomfortable bowel movements, is a common gastrointestinal complaint. Olive oil can help relieve this issue by soothing the inside of a person’s bowel and softening stool by aiding in water absorption.
Reduced Risk of Dying from Dementia
Studies have shown that adding more olive oil to your diet may decrease the risk of dying from dementia. This neurodegenerative disease is the seventh leading cause of death, according to the World Health Organization. Some antioxidant compounds in olive oil can potentially have a direct effect on the brain and benefit cardiovascular health, indirectly promoting brain health.
Lowered Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Olive oil is a major component of the Mediterranean diet, which has been repeatedly shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary heart disease. Consuming olive oil as part of a balanced diet can also reduce the risk of death from any cause.
Decreased Risk of Certain Diseases
Studies have indicated that consuming more than half a tablespoon of olive oil can lower the risk of dying from cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and respiratory diseases.
When Should I Drink Olive Oil?
For optimal benefits, it is recommended to consume one or two tablespoons of olive oil early in the morning on an empty stomach. By doing so, the oil can line the stomach, aid in digestion, expel waste, and regulate the intestinal microbiota throughout the day.
What Type of Olive Oil Should I Buy?
Among different variations of olive oil, extra virgin olive oil is highly recommended. This type of olive oil is obtained through a cold-pressing process, making it unrefined and allowing it to retain more antioxidants and bioactive compounds. Experts suggest opting for extra virgin olive oil to maximize nutrient intake.
