When people think of olive oil they tend to associate the product with health. Yes, olive oil is a healthy option (when used correctly), but did you know that not all olive oils are alike when it comes to the health benefits?
For example, aged olive oil doesn’t contain the same health benefits as newer olive oil. The taste and how olive oil is contained is important, too. Olive oil contains oleocanthal, which is an antioxidant. If you taste olive oil and it has a peppery undertone- it’s good. The more peppery an olive oil tastes, the higher the presence of antioxidants in the oil. So, you want to look for non-aged, peppery tasting olive oils when shopping. Also keep in mind extra virgin olive oil is better choice than just olive oil.
You also want to seek out olive oils contained in dark bottles or cans. Olive oil placed in clear glass is never a good thing. The clear glass can cause the level of oleocanthals to become minimal, making the oil almost obsolete when it comes to nutritional benefits. Cheap olive oils from a typical grocery store will also not contain a good amount of oleocanthals. I’m all about saving money when possible, but olive oil is NOT an area where you want to skimp when it comes to cash. Castello di Volpaia is a great olive oil and sells for under thirty dollars. You can order it online and most Whole Foods stores carry it.
Some benefits of using olive oil when cooking:
1. Recent studies indicate regular consumption of olive oil can help decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
2. It has been demonstrated that a diet that is rich in olive oil, low in saturated fats, moderately rich in carbohydrates and soluble fiber from fruit, vegetables, pulses and grains is the most effective approach for diabetics.
3. Although the reasons are still not fully clear, recent studies have proven people with diets containing high levels of olive oil are less likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis.
4. According to a new study from France, older individuals who consume olive oil daily may be able to protect themselves from a stroke.
Celebrities and doctors have been raving about olive oil and its benefits for years. And, olive oil is great for the skin. Many women use it to remove their makeup and moisturize at the same time.
I can go on and on about how great a good olive oil is for one’s diet and appearance. If you want to discuss how olive oil can play an essential role in maintaining your health please call me.
Maggie