In the Mediterranean diet, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the basis of all food. In fact, it is also very popular because of all the benefits and positive properties it brings to our body. Olive oil contains high levels of antioxidants such as oleocanthal and hydroxytyrosol, which have a direct impact on disease prevention, a fact that many people are unaware of. Likewise, we cannot forget the direct influence of vitamin K and vitamin E provided by EVOO in combating damage related to oxidation in the body. Finally, we must also emphasize how people suffering from Alzheimer’s or cardiovascular disease should also consume EVOO, as it directly helps to protect both the heart and the brain. Read on to learn more about how extra virgin olive oil is liquid gold for our bodies and health.
Stick with extra virgin: the best one
Let’s be clear from the begining: we’re talking about extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). This first-press variety is far less processed than refined or virgin oils, which implies that it keeps more of the nutrients and antioxidants that do the heavy lifting. Definetly the best one.
It must be said that due to the fact that is the best one, the EU had a record number of potential olive oil fraud and mislabelling cases in the first quarter of this year as inflationary pressures fuelled an increase in the hidden market for the kitchen staple.
The cost of olive oil: unreal prices
The cost of olive oil has more than doubled since 2018 with production hit by extreme weather caused by the climate crisis and other factors. As the price has spiked, so has the number of “cross-border EU notifications”, which include mislabelling, potential fraud, and safety cases involving contaminated oils.
In the first quarter of 2018, just 15 such cases were recorded by the EU. That rose to a record 50 cases in the first three months of this year, more than a threefold increase, according to data released to the Guardian under freedom of information laws.
However, these cases are only those to have been detected and reported by member states to the EU directorate general for health. The figure omits domestic cases and the true scale of the fraud is probably much higher. The incident reports included oils contaminated with unauthorised substances such as pesticides, mineral oils and one case where glass fragments were discovered.
However, below we will continue to present all the great qualities of EVOO and how they all benefit our bodies.
Heart health hero
EVOO highliths by the time it comes to looking after your heart. It’s full of powerful antioxidants, heart-healthy fats and natural anti-inflammatory features that all together o is the key to protect your cardiovascular system. Antioxidants such as oleocanthal and hydroxytyrosol aid combat oxidative stress, an important factor in chronic conditions such as heart disease, some cancers and neurodegenerative disorders.
Monounsaturated fats add to the protection by lowering blood pressure and keeping “bad” LDL cholesterol in check. On top of that, EVOO is rich in vitamin K, which supports blood clotting and bone health, and vitamin E, another potent antioxidant.
Cancer-fighting potential: EVOO strong features
People in Mediterranean countries tend to have lower rates of some cancers, and you can might now guess why. The normal use of extra virgin olive oil, along with other anti-inflammatory ingredients, is thought to play a essential role in that advantage.
Brain benefits
And EVOO isn’t just good for the heart. In addition, Oleic acid, an important component of the oil, has been connected to sharper brain function and may even aid reduce the danger of Alzheimer’s later in life.
With so much going for it, swapping butter or other fats for extra virgin olive oil is a easy way to boost your meals and your health. Your body, and most probably your taste buds, will appreciate the upgrade.
