IT PROTECTS THE HEART AND REDUCES THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE
Many studies have shown that heart diseases are relatively less common in Mediterranean countries, where olive oil consumption is high. Olive oil consumption plays a role in reducing heart diseases. It has heart-protective active compounds that helps to prevent arteriosclerosis and reduces blood pressure. In addition, LDL protects cholesterol from oxidation, reduces inflammation and helps to prevent blood clotting. It also helps to reduce high blood pressure.
IT STABILIZES THE BLOOD PRESSURE, BALANCES THE SUGAR WITHIN THE BLOODSTREAM, REDUCES THE RISK OF CANCER
Oleic acid in olive oil reduces any inflammation and it creates positive effects on cells, especially if there is a risk of genetic cancer (particularly breast cancer). Monounsaturated fats also help control high blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Due to its antioxidant ingredients (such as Oleocanthal), it reduces oxidative damage caused by free radicals and plays a role in reducing cancer risk factors.
IT PREVENTS INFLAMMATORY DISEASES
Chronic inflammation is one of the main causes of diseases such as cancer, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, arthritis and Alzheimer's. It’s proven that extra virgin olive oil consumption helps reduce chronic inflammation. Anti-inflammatory effect is primarily caused by antioxidants (like oleocanthal), they have similar effects to the body like ibuprofen or similar anti-inflammatory drugs. Regular consumption of olive oil every day, can create a natural defense system against long-term inflammation in the body.
IT REDUCES THE RISK OF PARALYSIS
The deterioration of the blood flow to the brain causes paralysis. In most developed countries, the stroke is the second most common cause of death after heart attacks. Many studies have found that extra virgin olive oil can reduce the risk of paralysis, by up to 40 percent.
IT REDUCES THE RISK OF TYPE 2 DIABETES
Extra virgin olive oil has positive effects on blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity, this helps prevent type 2 diabetes. One of the phenolic compounds in olive oil increases the effectiveness of insulin and help with glucose metabolism. Mediterranean and low-fat diet reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes by half.
IT HELPS TO PREVENT OSTEOPOROSIS
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in polyphenols which can prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) caused by ageing. Olive oil helps with absorbing calcium, which fights osteoporosis and increases bone formation. The risk of bone breakage is lower for people who consume olive oil regularly (especially elderly people).
IDEAL FOR WEIGHT LOSS
Monosaturated fatty acids in olive oil help to lose weight. Consuming extra virgin olive oil prevents the need to indulge in refined or trans fat sources, by increasing the feeling of satiety. Olive oil is also great for the digestive system. Unsaturated fatty acids support movement of food through colon, helps with smooth digestion and bowel movement. A healthy stomach and a good digestive system are the key for losing weight.
IT BLOCKS AND DESTROYS BACTERIA
Polyphenols found in extra virgin olive oil have antibacterial properties. They don't destroy bacteria like antibiotics, but they encourage the growth of useful probiotic bacteria in the intestine, protects from reproducing harmful bacteria. Researchers found that olive oil contains antimicrobial polyphenol compounds, which can help combat Helicobacter pylori infections. It is a harmful bacteria which could lead to stomach ulcer or types of cancer.
IT FIGHTS ALZHEIMER DISEASE AND ARTHRITIS
Alzheimer disease is a common form of dementia. It's caused by the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain cells. Extra virgin olive oil consumption is capable of reducing or even removing plaques. The Mediterranean diet, which contains meals that are rich in olive oil, tends to improve brain function. There is a common form of Rheumatoid Arthritis where the immune system doesn't function properly, so the body attacks its own joints and other organs. Consumption of extra virgin olive oil will support reducing oxidative stress in the body, improves inflammation in arthritis patients. The anti-inflammatory effects increase, especially when it is combined with fish oil.