Olive oil is truly a culinary paradox. Its smooth rich taste gives food an exotic spin- whether used for cooking or as a dressing . On other hand it's also incredibly healthy. Which explains why Mediterraneans , who unabashedly soak their breads in liberal quantities of the stuff,enjoy such great health.
Olive oil for healthy heart.....
Olive oil for healthy heart.....
A diet rich in olive oil has been shown to be significantly beneficial in arteriosclerosis . In addition olive oil lowers the level of total blood cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides . At the same time it does not alters the level of the HDL-cholesterol(good cholesterol) and may even raise them.
The lowest rate of death from coronary heart disease are currently recorded in the countries where olive oil is virtually the only oil consumed.( Professor Francisco Grand Covian)
In addition olive oil has been shown to have a positive effect on other aspects of health......
Olive oil and diabetes, ageing and blood pressure....
A diet rich in olive oil is a good alternative in the treatement of diabetes. It may also help prevent or delay the onset of the disease,as documented in both child and adult diabetes .
Olive oil may prevent age related cognitive decline and dementia and is associated with a significant increase in overall longevity.
Also the olive oil enriched diets have demonstrated beneficial effect in helping to lower blood pressure.
Olive oil and cancer....
Research studies suggest that olive oil exerts a protective effects against various cancers. Eating a healthy diet with olive oil as the main source of fat could considerabely lower the risk of cancer, because of the vitamins and antioxidants that it conains.
There is evidence that olive oil influences different stages of carcinogenesis, hormonal levels, cell membrane composition, signal transduction pathways, gene expression, and the immune system. Either its main monounsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, or the minor compounds may be responsible for its chemo-protective effects. Its bioactive compounds are emerging as potential agents in the treatment of cancer
Olive oil and osteoporosis.....
Olive oil stimulates growth , encourages calcium absorption and bone mineralisation and play an important part during growth and in the prevention of osteoporosis.
Olive oil and skin....
Olive oil has a protective ,toning effect on the skin.
It helps in prevention of the appearences of skin lessions and diminishing the sign of ageing.
Olive oil is also very beneficial for hair. Applying it regularly makes the hair soft , bouncy and strong.
Apart from all these beneficial properties olive oil is a very good cooking oil. The rich , fruity flavour of it enhances the taste of any dish - from salads to grilled , baked and fried dishes.
