Most olive trees can live more than 500 years. Olive oil is known for being ‘cleanser’ or ‘purifier’ for body. It is not just essential for crafting salad dressing or making oven-baked foods even more delicious, but also because it’s so good for your health!

GOOD FOR HEART

Olive oil contains biophenols, which suppress the oxidization of LDL (bad cholesterol) which has been shown to play a role in the development of cardiovascular disease. High levels of bad cholesterol in the blood amplify oxidative stress which hardens the arterial walls (called atherosclerosis). Olives reduce blood pressure, therefore reducing the development of arterial plaque as well.

Photo Credit : health line

PREVENT CANCER

Higher rates of olive oil consumption were associated with lower odds of having any type of cancer. Olive oil can decrease the risk of upper digestive and respiratory tract neoplasms, breast, colon, liver and other cancer sites. Extra virgin olive oil might have the power to kill off cancer cells.

PREVENT ULCERS

The antimicrobial properties in olives and olive oil may help to combat the bacteria responsible for causing stomach ulcers. Studies have shown their high levels of polyphenols protect against eight strains of ulcer-causing bacteria, three of which are resistant to some antibiotics. Olive oil is unique because it is one of very few edible vegetable oils with high phenolic content. Healthy phenolic compounds in olive oil will remain stable for hours in simulated acidic conditions of the stomach. This has a strong antibacterial effect.

Photo Credit : the real olive company

REDUCE INFLAMMATION

Although inflammation isn’t always a bad thing, an excessive of inflammation can lead to health problems like cancer, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s, arthritis and obesity. Olive oil is made of primarily monounsaturated fats like oleic acid. Studies suggest this acid can decrease chronic inflammation. The concentration of oleocanthal contains in virgin olive oil it is unique only to olive oil. It is not found in any other vegetable oils!

BOOST IRON INTAKE

Olives contain a substantial amount of iron, a key factor in the formation of hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen throughout the body via the bloodstream. Iron also helps to build the enzymes responsible for regulating immune function and cognitive development, specifically on cognitive decline associated with aging.