Olive oil is considered as being a liquid gold as it adds taste to our food but is also one of nature's healing wonders. It just so happens that nature has provided us with a food that the dietary fats contained in this magic oil, are in the exact ratio that human beings need them. Below are some of the main health benefits of olive oil.

1. Heart Benefits - Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fat
and antioxidants like chlorophyll, carotenoids and vitamin
E. The Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) also known as the "bad
cholesterol" transports and deposits cholesterol in the
tissues and arteries, which can eventually block the arteries
leading to deficient blood flow and all kinds of heart
problems. The high levels of monounsaturated fats found
in the oil not only lower LDL levels protecting you from
atherosclerosis, but also allow the High Density
Lipoproteins (HDL) the "good cholesterol" to clean the
cholesterol away from the arteries.
Inflammation Benefits - The healthy fats in olive oil are used by
the body to create natural anti-inflammatory agents which help
reduce the severity of both arthritis and asthma. Cell membranes
that are not inflamed are able to transport healthy nutrients
into the cells and move the waste products out.
Cancer Benefits - A study published in the January 2005 issue of
Annals of Oncology (which is a peer-reviewed medical journal of
tumors and cancers), showed that a monounsaturated fatty acid
found in olives called oleic acid, has the ability to reduce the affect of an oncogene. An
oncogene is a gene that in certain circumstances transforms a cell into a cancer cell.
Another research which included over 36,000 participants conducted by the University of Athens revealed that high
rates of olive oil consumption, is associated with lower odds of having any type of cancer.
Diabetes Benefits - A Spanish study published in the Scientific Journal Diabetes Care revealed that a Mediterranean style
diet, rich in olives, reduces by almost 50% the risk of type II diabetes when compared to a low fat diet. Previously it was
prescribed that a low fat diet can prevent various diseases such as heart diseases and diabetes, whereas it now appears
that it is the "type" of fat that counts rather than the actual amount of fat. Adding olive oil to your diet can also lower
your triglyceride levels. Many diabetics live with high triglyceride levels which increases their risk for heart diseases.
Weight-Loss Benefits - Being overweight goes hand in hand with high levels of cholesterol, heart disease and other
ailments. In a study conducted and published in the September 2003 issue of the British Journal of Nutrition, it was
found that a significant loss of body weight and fat mass can be achieved by changing only one eating habit; the
substitution of saturated fats with olive oil.
By merely switching to monounsaturated fats from saturated fats, you will not only lose that extra weight, but also help
you fight against other diseases. By also adding a regular regimen of exercise, you're on your way to an overall healthier
lifestyle.
Olive oil is considered as being a liquid gold as it adds taste to our food but is also one of
nature's healing wonders. It just so happens that nature has provided us with a food that the
dietary fats contained in this magic oil, are in the exact ratio that human beings need them.
Below are some of the main health benefits of olive oil.
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