May Help Prevent Strokes
Olive oil may help protect againststrokeby lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
These effects are believed to be due to olive oil’s healthy fats and phenolic compounds.
Another study found topical extra virgin olive oil may help with inflammatory joint pain in women.
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May Help Gut Health and IBD
The foods we eat directly influence the bacteria in our gut.
Extra virgin olive oil significantly improved inflammation markers and symptoms, including:
10.
But note that a little drizzle goes a long way, as olive oil is also high in calories.
How Is Olive Oil Made and Used?
Olive oilis made by crushing fresh olives into a paste.
The paste is warmed and stirred in a mixer to help release the oil and form larger droplets.
The resulting mixture is then pumped into a centrifuge to separate the olive oil from the water and pulp.
After processing, the olive oil can be finished by filtration or racking (purging).
Olive oil is commonly used in salad dressings or when sauteing vegetables.
It’s also used in cosmetics, including hair andskincare.
Vitamin K is needed for blood clotting and supports healthy bones.
Olive Oil vs.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Which Is Healthier?
Extra virgin and regular olive oil have health benefits and contain similar amounts of healthy fats.
However, extra virgin olive oil is considered the more nutritious choice and is typically used in research studies.
How Much Olive Oil Should You Consume Per Day?
The amount of olive oil you consume daily depends on your overall calorie needs.
However, most studies have shown health benefits from consuming at least 1/2 a teaspoon daily.
Are There Health Benefits of Drinking Olive Oil?
American Heart Association.Saturated fat.
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2020;45(2):106-113. doi:10.1097/rnj.0000000000000162
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.What is metabolic syndrome?
2022;122(2):284-297.e1.
2019;7(9):321. doi:10.3390/microorganisms7090321
North American Olive Oil Association.How olive oil is made.
International Olive Council.Best practice guidelines for the storage of olive oils and olive-pomace oils for human consumption.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.Olive oil.
National Institutes of Health.Vitamin E: fact sheet for consumers.
National Institutes of Health.Vitamin K: fact sheet for consumers.
