What makes olive oil so special?
Olive Oil - The Liquid Gold for Your Health
Olive oil is not only a delicious part of Mediterranean cuisine, but also a true miracle cure for our health. Discover the many positive effects of olive oil on your body:
cardiovascular health
reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease
Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies show that people who consume 4 or more tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil daily have about a 30% lower risk of heart attack, stroke and death from heart disease[1][3].
improvement of cholesterol levels
The high content of monounsaturated fatty acids in olive oil helps lower "bad" LDL cholesterol levels while increasing "good" HDL cholesterol levels[3][7].
lowering blood pressure
Regular consumption of olive oil can lower blood pressure. This is particularly effective when olive oil is taken in combination with antihypertensive medications over a period of 6 months[5][7].
anti-inflammatory effect
Natural painkiller
Olive oil contains the active ingredient oleocanthal, which has similar anti-inflammatory properties to ibuprofen. This makes olive oil a natural remedy for pain and inflammation[2][4].
reducing chronic inflammation
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of olive oil may help reduce chronic inflammation in the body. This is especially important since chronic inflammation is linked to many diseases such as Alzheimer's and type 2 diabetes[2][4].
cancer prevention
protection against breast cancer
Studies suggest that increased intake of olive oil in the diet is associated with a lower risk of developing breast cancer[5].
Antioxidant effect
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, especially polyphenols. These substances can help fight oxidative stress and thus reduce the risk of various types of cancer[1][6].
metabolism and weight control
improving insulin sensitivity
A diet rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, such as those found in olive oil, can improve insulin sensitivity and thus reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes[2][5].
support with weight control
Studies suggest that a diet rich in monounsaturated fatty acids may prevent the accumulation of abdominal fat and possibly improve insulin sensitivity[2].
brain health and mood
protection against neurodegenerative diseases
The polyphenols contained in olive oil have neuroprotective properties that may protect against neurodegenerative diseases[1].
mood enhancement
Interestingly, studies show that a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil can help treat depression. In one study, 30% of participants with moderate to severe depression went into remission after a 12-week Mediterranean diet intervention that included olive oil[1].
Olive oil is more than just a food - it is an elixir for health and well-being. Incorporate this "liquid gold" into your daily diet and enjoy its many health benefits. Your body will thank you!
Sources:
[1] https://www.aboutoliveoil.org/12-surprising-health-benefits-of-olive-oil
[2] https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/health/nutrition/health-benefits-olive-oil
[3] https://www.heart.org/en/news/2022/09/28/the-benefits-of-adding-a-drizzle-of-olive-oil-to-your-diet
[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8424077/
[5] https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1689/olive-oil
[6] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-olive-oil
[7] https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-olive-oil
[8] https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/good-food/olive-oils-health-benefits-and-why-you-should-add-it-to-your-diet/2024/04
[9] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/extra-virgin-olive-oil
[10] https://www.verywellfit.com/olive-oil-nutrition-facts-calories-and-health-benefits-4120274