Extra virgin olive oil is one of the
key foods of the Mediterranean diet, valuable in the kitchen as a condiment, but even more
valuable for health thanks to its many properties and
remarkable benefits.
Numerous scientific studies conducted over recent decades, many based on epidemiological analysis, have shown that extra virgin olive oil in particular, and oils high in biophenols like
denocciolato oil, have truly surprising
beneficial effects on human health.
Let's look at the
10 main benefits of extra virgin olive oil for our wellbeing.
Cardiovascular disease
Extra virgin olive oil lowers
bad cholesterol (LDL) and raises good cholesterol (HDL). The risk of these conditions decreases, accordingly, in proportion to how much you consume.
Cancer
The combination of monounsaturated fats and biophenols reduces the risk linked to the most common
cancers affecting the intestine, colon, prostate, pancreas, endometrium and breast.
Aging
The
preventive effects of extra virgin olive oil against
aging and the conditions that come with it — such as senile dementia, cognitive decline, Alzheimer's and osteoporosis — are linked to its antioxidant content.
High blood pressure
Regular consumption of extra virgin olive oil helps reduce
blood pressure, both systolic (upper) and diastolic (lower). The key compound here is biophenols.
Diabetes
It has been shown that a diet high in extra virgin olive oil, low in saturated fats and moderately rich in carbohydrates and soluble fiber like fruit, vegetables, legumes and grains, is the most effective diet for
diabetic patients.
Obesity
Despite extra virgin olive oil containing 9 calories per gram, Mediterranean populations accustomed to consuming large amounts of it show a lower rate of
obesity than populations relying on animal fats. Extra virgin olive oil also helps make a healthy diet of fruit, vegetables and fish more enjoyable.
Immune system
It has been shown that the fatty acids in olive oil strengthen the
immune system against bacteria and viruses.
Arthritis
People who consume small amounts of extra virgin olive oil are 2.5 times more likely to develop
arthritis, an incidence linked to antioxidant content.
Digestive system
Extra virgin olive oil inhibits gastric motility, aiding both
digestion and the absorption of nutrients.
Depression
Extra virgin olive oil performs a function similar to most
antidepressants, raising serotonin levels in the brain. A study conducted on a sample of 10,000 university students confirmed the beneficial effects of the Mediterranean diet in reducing cases of
depression.After reviewing the
10 main benefits of extra virgin olive oil, we can say with certainty that it's far more than a simple condiment — it's a genuine
nutraceutical food, remarkably effective at protecting our health.
Have you already tried
denocciolato extra virgin olive oil from Frantoio Oleario Pace? Flavorful and rich in antioxidant biophenols. Discover it in our online shop!
