Stay Healthy by using Olive Oil in Cooking, Salads and Baking at Home

By Arvind Patnaik

October 12

Olive oil is largely obtained by grinding and pressing the olives to get the oil. Olive oil can be used in a wide variety of recipes including fresh salads and baking. It comes with a host of health benefits.

Types of Olive Oil

Primarily oils are graded on the basis of processing and are broadly categorized as extra virgin, virgin and refined. Refined olive oil is the most processed oil.

Healthy Oil

It is believed that the oil that is least processed is also the most healthiest. Extra virgin olive oil(EVOO) has more nutrition than virgin or refined olive oils. It is rich in healthy plant nutrients called phytochemicals that can combat cancer and heart disease.

Healthy Heart

Extensive studies have shown that regular use of extra virgin olive oil can not only boost the health of the heart but also lower heart related diseases. The active compounds in EVOO help in reducing and hardening of the arteries. And thus, helps in substantially reducing heart diseases.

Diminishes Stroke Risk

Replacing less healthy fats with olive oil in cooking can lower chances of getting a stroke by more than 40 per cent.

Combats Inflammation

Inflammation can cause chronic diseases. Active antioxidants in EVOO can reduce the Inflammation similar to the drugs such as Ibuprofen. The oleic acid in olive oil is an anti-inflammatory ingredient.

Rich in.Antioxidants

Free radicals are unstable atoms that damage the cells. Antioxidants are compounds that prevent or slow down the damage. EVOO is rich in antioxidants that can help to lower the risk of disease.

Destroys Bacteria

Olive oil contains nutrients that can fight harmful bacteria. Some stomach bacteria can cause ulcers and cancer. Compounds in olive oil can destroy the bacteria.

Prevents Cancer

Research has shown that olive oil based meals lowers the risk of colorectal, endometrial, breast, pancreatic and prostrate cancers.

Healthy Brain

Studies have also revealed that an olive oil based meal can boost the brain.  It can enable to think, understand and remember better and may ward off Alzheimer’s disease.