Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains plant polyphenols, which are compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. There are many health benefits associated with consuming EVOO and plant polyphenols. Continue reading to learn more.
What is Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Extra-virgin olive oil is from pure, cold-pressed olives, whereas regular olive oil is a blend, including both cold-pressed and processed oils. EVOO has a fruity taste and a strong, pungent aroma. It is also the least acidic of the olive oils.
The main health benefit of EVOO is that it is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Additionally, Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains high levels of antioxidants called polyphenols. These substances protect the body against cell damage and can lower the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.
What are Plant Polyphenols?
Extra virgin olive oil is a type of vegetable oil that is extracted from cold-pressed olives. It is an unrefined oil with a higher concentration of monounsaturated fats than other oils. Extra virgin olive oil is also a source of polyphenols, antioxidants that protect against chronic diseases.
Polyphenols are a phytonutrient type, a natural compound found in plants. They have antioxidant properties and can help to protect cells from damage. Polyphenols can also help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. There are many different types of polyphenols in a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, tea, coffee, chocolate, and red wine. Extra virgin olive oil is a rich source of one type of polyphenol called phenolic acids.
Phenolic acids are thought to play a role in the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil. They may help to protect against heart disease by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Phenolic acids may also help to reduce inflammation and improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. In addition, phenolic acids may help to prevent cancer by inducing cell death and inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Plant Polyphenols
Extra virgin olive oil and plant polyphenols offer a wide range of health benefits. Loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s no wonder why olive oil is so good for you.
1. EVOO and plant polyphenols can help protect against heart disease.
2. EVOO and plant polyphenols can help reduce inflammation.
3. They can help improve cognitive function.
4. Extra Virgin Olive Oil and plant polyphenols can help protect against certain types of cancer.
How to Get More Olive Oil and Plant Polyphenols in Your Diet
Extra virgin olive oil and plant polyphenols are healthy fats that offer a range of health benefits. Here are some tips on how to get more of these healthy fats in your diet:
– drizzle extra virgin olive oil over salads or use it in place of other oils in cooking
– add a few spoonfuls of olive oil to your morning smoothie or oatmeal
– enjoy a dish made with olive oil at least once a week
– incorporate plant foods high in polyphenols into your diet, such as berries, dark chocolate, green tea, and red wine
Conclusion
Extra virgin olive oil and plant polyphenols offer a wide range of health benefits. These natural compounds can profoundly impact our well-being from supporting heart health to reducing inflammation.
If you’re looking for a way to improve your health, adding EVOO and plant polyphenols to your diet is a great place to start.
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