The "good fat."
Here some amazing effects olive oil has on the body!
- Anti cancer: It is believed that olive oil lowers the risk of prostate cancer, breast cancer, and colon cancer. Extra virgin olive oil also triggers apoptosis, or triggered cell death, in cancer cells. In regions of Mediterranean Europe where olive oil is used most, cancer rates are significantly lower.
- Heart health: Olive oil contains monounsaturated fat which is known as "good fat" and is heart healthy. Phytochemicals in olive oil lower cholesterol as well further protecting against heart disease.
- Diabetes: Monounsaturated fats in olive oil help manage cholesterol. This beneficial fat found in olive oil helps to manage triglyceride levels, increases healthy HDL cholesterol levels, and reduces bad or LDL cholesterol. Some evidence also suggests that monounsaturated fat plays a role in stabilizing blood glucose levels.
- Inflammation: An article published in 2005 by researchers from Philadelphia identified a compound in olive oil called oleocanthal has an anti inflammatory effect. Their studies concluded that the compound acts like ibuprofen or other anti inflammatory medications.
- Weight management: The simple fact that olive oil contains monounsaturated fats makes it beneficial to the body in different ways. Try switching from saturated fats to monounsaturated fats and it will aid in losing excess weight. Successfully managing your weight and saving on health insurance go hand in hand.
Cool facts about olive oil http://kaufmann-mercantile.com/the-history-of-olive-oil/
More health benefits of olive oil http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/the-health-benefits-of-olive-oil-ga.htm
