Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Your All-In-One Remedy for Head-to-Toe Vitality
Drinking Liquid Gold – How Olive Oil Equals Absurd Health Perks
By now most of us know olive oil does a body good, but did you realize actually drinking it provides insane benefits? I’m talking next level health hacks like heart protection, fat burning and even better sleep. Sound too good to be true? Well, it’s true! It’s no coincidence Mediterranean cultures who consume olive oil liberally have long life expectancies and not s surprisingly low rates of chronic diseases. From robust cardiovascular systems to sharp cognitive skills well into old age, everyday olive oil intake is the common denominator for their vitality. Let’s unpack why!
Olive Oil Perk #1 – Optimized Cholesterol and Blood Pressure
Is fat clogging your arteries? Not all fat fits the bill! Olive oil is decidedly heart-healthy thanks to its monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) profile. Unlike trans and saturated fats, MUFAs lower LDL (bad cholesterol), raise HDL (the good kind), and prevent plaque buildup in blood vessels. Research confirms regular olive oil consumption slashes both systolic and diastolic blood pressure numbers while enhancing endothelial function. Healthy, flexible blood vessels equal better oxygen and nutrient circulation plus lower cardiovascular risks.
Olive Oil Perk #2 – Reduced Inflammation
Chronic inflammation causes cellular damage linked to nearly every age-related condition from heart disease to diabetes, dementia and cancer. Luckily, olive oil neutralizes inflammation with its phenolic compounds like oleocanthal, which mimics ibuprofen, and oleuropein, a potent antioxidant. This consumption of olive oil leads to numerous wellness perks like easier weight management, improved joint mobility, balanced blood sugar, and boosted immunity.
Olive Oil Perk #3 – Brain and Nerve Protection
Cognitive related conditions rob us of precious memories, and we can combat this with olive oil. The good news? Olive oil shields nerve fibers and brain cells thanks to hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein coming to the rescue. These potent compounds deter amyloid beta proteins from forming neuron-suffocating plaque linked to Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Olive Oil Perk #4 – Disease Defense
Oleocanthal doesn’t mess around when putting cancer cells and pathogens on notice thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial powers. Studies confirm it smothers cancer cell growth and kills off nasty bugs including H. Pylori, a sneaky bacteria connected to stomach ulcers and gastric cancer. It’s pretty cool how olive oil plays offense and defense!
Olive Oil Perk #5 – Beauty Boosts
Tired dull skin and lackluster locks? Turns out loading up on olive oil’s antioxidants and healthy fats brings that youthful glow back! These nourishing compounds renew skin cell turnover, lock in moisture, calm inflammation and even protect against UV rays. I’ll cheers to livelier skin and shinier hair with EVOO any day!
Olive Oil Perk #6 – Better Sleep
One of my favorite olive oil benefits is how it enhances sleep quality. The fatty acids trigger our cells to release serotonin which makes us feel relaxed and tired. Meanwhile, antioxidants reduce inflammation so our bodies fully move into rest and repair mode at night. Olive oil for the win! I like taking a teaspoon or two about 30 minutes before bed. The smooth, slightly peppery flavor cuts through any heaviness while acting as an all-natural sleep aid. And I wake up feeling refreshed instead of groggy like with medication!
Olive Oil Perk #7 – Weight Loss
I know it sounds crazy that consuming fat helps you shed fat. But olive oil’s anti-inflammatory phenols combined with MUFAs boost insulin sensitivity so your blood sugar stabilizes. No blood sugar or insulin rollercoaster means your hunger/cravings cool off and fat storage turns down. Pretty nifty mechanism for effortless weight management!
Olive Oil Powerhouse – Extra Virgin Please!
Hopefully you’re pumped to glug some olive oil for all the benefits mentioned above! But not just any oil will do. Only extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) retains all the precious elements that makes olive oil a health elixir. That “extra virgin” status means:
- It’s from the first, cold pressing of fresh, green olives – not overripe, low-nutrient black ones!
- No heat or chemicals are used for processing which is key in protecting its antioxidant profile.
- Has an oleic acidity score under 0.5% oleic acid indicating phenol potency.
- Features a dark glass bottle and harvest date for freshness.
How to Get Your Daily Dose
Ready to make like a Mediterranean and drink up? Take 1-2 tablespoons daily for the full spectrum of benefits. Have it before breakfast to start fat burning metabolic fires. Or try it before bed to enhance sleep. Mix it into soups, sauces and dressings too!
