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Health Benefits Of Olive Oil
Olive oil contains the monounsaturated fat, oleic acid and is packed with antioxidants such as vitamin E and carotenoids. It is these components that contribute to the health benefits of olive oil.
Maintaining A Healthy Heart With Olive OilCholesterol is synthesized in the liver and packaged in lipoproteins. These lipoproteins are of two types: low-density lipoproteins (LDL) that are termed the "bad cholesterol" since they transport the cholesterol around the body, and high-density lipoproteins (HDL) that are known as the "good cholesterol" since they return the cholesterol to the liver for excretion. LDL particles can become oxidized and stick to the walls of arteries forming plaques that may eventually result in heart attacks or strokes. Olive oil contains oleuropein, a chemical that prevents the oxidation of LDL particles and hence maintains a healthy heart.
Prevention Of CancersOleic acid, is the component of olive oil that prevents the conversion of host cells into cancerous cells by oncogenes. Furthermore, olive oil has an antioxidant effect, neutralizing the action of carcinogenic free radicals. In particular, olive oil has proven to be effective against breast cancer, prostate cancer, ovarian cancer and colon cancer.
Other Health Benefits Of Olive OilOlive oil had also been shown to have blood glucose reducing effects in diabetics who are following a diet low in fats and high in carbohydrates. Additionally, certain components of olive oil have demonstrated anti-inflammatory actions that have contributed to its usefulness in asthma and arthritis. It also protects against stomach ulcers if taken before a meal and in constipation. Olive Oil also contain less fat than many other vegetable oils, and therefore is a healthier choice for people trying to lose weight.
Extra Virgin OilWhen shopping for olive oil, look for extra virgin olive oil. This is the highest grade of olive oil available that is extracted from the first press and contains no chemicals. Additionally, oil that is green in color has more chlorophyll and is of a healthier grade than golden yellow oil. Virgin olive oil comes from the second press and has a lower content of antioxidants and therefore fewer health benefits. The benefits of olive oil make it superior oil over others and it is worth paying a little extra for a higher grade of olive oil. Even though it has 120 calories per tablespoon of oil, most of these come from monounsaturated fats. Other oils may contain high amounts of "bad calories", sodium, cholesterol and sugar.
Olive oil can be incorporated into the daily diet as a salad dressing, dipping oil or a substitute in daily cooking.
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Reap the multiple health benefits of olive oil and live a longer healthier life. This monounsaturated fat is used extensively for cooking in the
Mediterranean and and numerous studies have shown that individuals living in this area are known to have a lower occurrence of cancer, diabetes, asthma, arthritis,
cholesterol and blood pressure; health benefits that have all been linked to the high olive oil content in their
