6 Incredible Health Benefits Of Olive Oil

Olive oil is obtained by grinding or pressing whole olives and accumulating the oil that seeps out. It’s versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes. With its distinct pungent flavor, olive oil can liven up a variety of bland foods. It can be used in cooking, as a drizzle on bread, pasta, or salads, or as an ingredient in baked goods. Best of all, it has a slew of health advantages.

Olive oil may lower type 2 diabetes risk

Olive oil appears to be highly beneficial in preventing type 2 diabetes. Several studies have linked olive oil to improved blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity. According to one study, a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes by more than 40%.

Olive oil can help treat rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causing them to become deformed and painful. Though the exact cause is unknown, it appears that your immune system is mistakenly attacking normal cells. In people with rheumatoid arthritis, olive oil supplements help to increase inflammatory markers and reduce oxidative stress. When combined with fish oil, a source of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, olive oil appears to be especially beneficial. According to one study, olive and fish oil significantly improved handgrip strength, joint pain, and morning stiffness in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Olive oil may help prevent strokes

Stroke is caused by a disruption in blood flow to your brain, caused by a blood clot or bleeding. Stroke is the second leading cause of death in developed countries, trailing behind heart disease. The link between olive oil and the risk of stroke is studied extensively. According to a review of studies, olive oil is the only source of monounsaturated fat associated with a lower risk of stroke and heart disease. Another survey of participants found that those who consumed olive oil had a much lower risk of stroke than those who did not.

It may lower the threat of various cancers

While no food is a cure-all for cancer, olive oil consumption may be one of the reasons cancer rates are lower in Mediterranean countries. According to the findings of a recent study, extra virgin olive oil causes changes in gut bacteria that are associated with the prevention of colorectal cancer; and previous research has shown that women who consume the most olive oil have a lower risk of colon cancer and breast cancer.

It supports a healthy gut microbiome

Your gut microbiome influences everything from digestion to mood to skin appearance, so keeping it healthy is in your best interests. According to a review, the polyphenols in olive oil may reduce GI tract inflammation and promote the growth of good bacteria. Researchers discovered that eating 1.5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil per day helped boost populations of healthy bifidobacteria in the gut.

Boosts heart health

Comprehensive studies have shown that including more extra virgin olive oil in your diet lowers your risk of developing heart disease. Olive oil contains active compounds that help lower blood pressure and prevent artery hardening.