Although many health benefits of olive oil are already known, there are still some unfamiliar to most of us…
Join us as we discover some of the surprising olive oil health facts!
What are the Health Benefits of Olive Oil?
Most people are familiar with some of the biggest health benefits of olive oil…
We know that olive oil is:
- Rich in antioxidants
- Generally considered to be a great, healthy option to aid in weight loss
- A good way to balance nutrition
However, there are still many surprising olive oil health facts that indicate its benefits are even further reaching than most of us know.
So, what are these health benefits of olive oil?
Some of the Most Surprising Olive Oil Health Facts
- It reduces bad cholesterol levels. Olive oil contains a number of poly-phenols, which help keep LDL cholesterol within normal range. For those who struggle with high cholesterol, a diet rich in olive oil can help keep it under control.
- It can help prevent memory loss. A diet rich in olive oil can help prevent symptoms connected to memory loss. Researchers who have studied this believe that it could be related to the role fatty acids play in maintaining the brain's structural integrity, specifically the portions of the brain that we associate with memory. Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, is rich in unsaturated fatty acids that help to strengthen those portions of the brain.
- It protects the body's red blood cells. Some of the poly-phenols found in olive oil have been proven to be great at protecting red blood cells from oxidation. This slows the aging process of those cells, keeping them healthy and intact for longer periods of time.
- It helps to keep food fresh. Thanks to the significant portions of Vitamin E found in olive oil, it is not only ideal for cooking and general health, but it even works to keep food stay fresh longer.
- It is a wonderful, natural way to keep skin healthy. One of the health benefits of olive oil is that it is an excellent natural skin care product. This is because it is very similar in chemical structure to the natural oils found in the skin. Many companies that make natural moisturizers use olive oil as a base ingredient.
- It can be used as a substitute for dairy products in many recipes. Dairy allergies and intolerances are quite common and can negatively impact health. Using olive oil as a substitute for butter in many cooking and baking recipes is a wonderful way to enjoy rich, tasty foods without the potential negative impacts of dairy. When used in baking, olive oil can often be used as a substitute for butter at a 3:4 ratio—¾ cup of olive oil will typically replace 1 cup of butter.
- It is believed by many researchers that olive oil has cancer-fighting properties. For instance, a research team led by Hunter College indicated that certain extra virgin olive oils kill human cancer cells with no obvious effect on normal cells.
Other studies performed have demonstrated that oleocanthal, a component found in some olive oils, has this cancer-killing power.
- It is useful for those who have high levels of cholesterol, carbohydrates, or sodium. This is because olive oil is naturally cholesterol, sodium, and carbohydrate free.
- It can help protect the skin from the effects of the sun. Olive oil was used in Ancient Rome as a moisturizer and as a type of sunscreen to protect against sun damage. Today olive oil is known to help protect skin from the sun; however, most professionals have determined that it should not be used on its own but in conjunction with other products such as sunscreen. If used as a moisturizer, olive oil can be paired along with other skin protection as a great duo.
There are studies being done constantly about the health benefits of olive oil, and we continue to learn more about just how great it is for the human body, household maintenance, pets, etc. Yet, even from these few points, we discover that having olive oil in our homes is more than a tool to keep pans from sticking or to maintain cast iron skillets… it is a way to keep our bodies, families, and homes in good order.
Bonus Uses for Olive Oil
Certainly, our health and the health of our families is foremost in our thoughts and the reasons for keeping quality olive oil in our homes, but there are dozens of other uses for olive oil...
Here are four bonus uses and benefits of olive oil:
- Make-up remover. The area around the eyes is sensitive, and though there are eye-safe facial cleansers, not everyone can use them. In such cases, or when a regularly used cleanser is not available, olive oil can be used as a safe alternative.
As with all make-up removers, avoid contact with the eye itself and rinse with water should contact occur.
- Diaper rash treatment. Babies have delicate skin; thankfully, olive oil is gentle and works as a uniquely effective moisturizer. For diaper rash, gently apply a little olive oil to the affected area to not only moisturize but help ease site irritation—however, as with all new products used on young children, be aware that though rare, reactions can occur.
- Removing labels. Apply olive oil to the surface of the label and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes, then rub away the label! If any residue remains, wash with soap and warm/hot water to leave a smooth, clean surface.
- Removing paint, gum, and more from skin and hair. No matter if it is from home improvement or children playing, there are many times when messes happen.
To cleanse paint covered hair or skin, simply coat the area in olive oil, let stand for several minutes, and then gently take a paper towel or old rag to the area. Should any residue remain, wash as usual with warm/hot water and shampoo/soap.
When removing gum or other sticky residues from hair or skin, allow the olive oil to sit for 5-10 minutes before taking a paper towel or old rag to the area. Again, if there is any residue left, wash the area. We at My Olive Tree hope that you have been helped by our exploration of some lesser-known olive oil health facts. To enjoy the health benefits of olive oil, make sure to choose a high-quality olive oil that fits your needs. Shop for extra virgin olive oil sourced from Israel today through My Olive Tree!
