Olive oil is one of the oldest known food sources. Because of its benefits, it has been called liquid gold and liquid sun since ancient times.
So, what are the most prominent health benefits of olive oil? Are there any situations in which it is inconvenient to use olive oil? Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook reviewed it for BBC Good Food.
Olive oil is obtained by squeezing whole olives. The olive tree is native to the Mediterranean. The taste of olives can vary depending on the country where it is grown: Some may be mild and some may be bitter.
Processing techniques cause olive oil to be divided into two groups, refined or unrefined.
Unrefined oils, pure and unprocessed oils that have not been exposed to heat or chemicals during squeezing. Therefore, it is purer and the taste is sharper.
Refined oils, on the other hand, are oils that have been processed to eliminate potential defects, and are generally lighter in color and softer in taste.
Extra virgin olive oil is unrefined olive oil obtained from the first pressing. Because the oil is not heated during extraction, beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols are preserved.
Best quality olive oil, extra virgin olive oils. These are generally more expensive. The taste is more pronounced, and the color is darker.
Most of the olive oils sold as non-virgin or light are a mixture of cold-pressed and refined oils.
NUTRITIONAL VALUES OF OLIVE OIL
The nutritional values of one tablespoon (11 milliliters) of olive oil are as follows:
99 kilocalories (kcals) / 407 kilojoules (kJ)
11 grams of fat
6 grams of saturated fat
0 grams of monounsaturated fat
9 grams of polyunsaturated fat
56 milligrams of vitamin E
5 MOST IMPORTANT BENEFITS FOR HEALTH
1. IT MAY BE GOOD FOR HEART HEALTH
Olive oil is one of the most important foods in the Mediterranean diet.
In particular, there is a lot of research showing that extra virgin olive oil is beneficial for heart health.
This is because it lowers blood pressure and regulates cholesterol levels.
Scientific research shows that olive oil is the only source of “monounsaturated fat” that reduces both stroke and heart disease.
2. CAN REDUCE INFLAMMATION
Inflammation is among the causes of many chronic health problems.
These include Alzheimer’s and Type 2 diabetes.
Studies on antioxidants such as oleic acid in olive oil and their role in inflammation have shown that they reduce inflammation and the level of C-Reactive Protein, which indicates the degree of inflammation.
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in polyphenols. One of these plant compounds in olive oil is oleocanthal.
Oleocanthal is said to be a natural anti-inflammatory substance with the same pharmacological properties as ibuprofen.
With this feature, it can also be good for rheumatoid arthritis, which can be defined as joint inflammation.
3. MATERIAL IMPROVEMENT
It is recommended to consume plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, oily fish and olive oil for a healthy diet.
Olive oil also plays a role in reducing depression as part of such a diet.
4. CAN IMPROVE BRAIN FUNCTION
In a 2015 study, it was determined that the Mediterranean diet supplemented with olive oil or nuts such as hazelnuts and walnuts in the elderly helps to improve the cognitive, or cognitive function of the brain.
Therefore, it may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
5. MAY PROTECT AGAINST CHRONIC DISEASES
Some research shows that olive oil and its high polyphenol content may have a protective effect against Type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer.
However, more research is needed for definitive conclusions.
CAN EVERYONE USE OLIVE OIL?
Olive oil, which is not missing from the tables in countries where the healthiest people in the world live, is generally beneficial for everyone.
However, in rare cases, there are cases of allergies caused by pollen of the olive tree rather than olive oil.
It is necessary to consume olive oil in moderation, as it is high in calories.