Oil, health and beauty

Oil and Health: 10 Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is one of the main foods of the Mediterranean diet , precious in the kitchen as a condiment, but even more precious for health thanks to its many properties and its extraordinary benefits . Numerous scientific studies carried out over the last few decades, many of which are based on epidemiological analyses, have highlighted that extra virgin olive oil in particular and oils with a high content of biophenols such as pitted oil , have truly surprising beneficial effects on human health. Let's see what the 10 main benefits of extra virgin olive oil are for our well-being. Cardiovascular diseases Extra virgin olive oil reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL). The risk of these diseases therefore decreases in proportion to its consumption. Tumors The combination of monounsaturated fats and biophenols reduces the risk associated with the most common cancers affecting the intestine, colon, prostate, pancreas, endometrium, and breast. Aging The preventive effects of extra virgin olive oil on aging and the diseases that result from 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 at both systolic (maximum) and diastolic (minimum) levels. The key compound in this case is biophenols. Diabetes A diet high in extra virgin olive oil, low in saturated fat and moderately rich in carbohydrates and soluble fibre such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and cereals has been shown to be the most effective diet for diabetic patients . Obesity Although extra virgin olive oil contains 9 calories per gram, Mediterranean populations accustomed to consuming large quantities of it have a lower rate of obesity than populations that consume animal fats. Extra virgin olive oil also helps make a healthy diet based on fruit, vegetables, and fish more palatable. Immune system The fatty acids in olive oil have been shown to strengthen the immune system against bacteria and viruses. Arthritis Individuals who consume small amounts of extra virgin olive oil have a 2.5-fold increased risk of developing arthritis , the incidence of which is linked to the 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 , increasing 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 confidently state that it is much more than a simple condiment, but a true nutraceutical, extraordinarily effective for protecting our health. Have you tried Frantoio Oleario Pace's pitted extra virgin olive oil yet ? It's tasty and rich in antioxidant biophenols. Discover it in our online shop!