Surprising Health Benefits of Olive Oil

Ayurvedic Doctor from Bangalore talks on the health benefits of olive oil. Read on!

Olive oil is fast becoming a synonym to a healthy heart. This kitchen wonder is finding a unique place in every Indian’s shelf. Mostly because of its glamourous avatar in the cooking shows and magazines.

But have you wondered if it’s just a marketing gimmick or is olive oil really healthy?

Most of us think this after looking at the hefty price tag in the grocery shop!

Is it even worth this price?

Well, it is!

Crowned as the golden liquid, this exquisite oil one of the healthiest fats with multiple benefits.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is the fat obtained from crushing the fruit olive. That means it’s a natural fat extracted from the fruit. Doesn’t it already sound healthy? It’s the perfect oil for prepping light healthy meals. 

About 14% of the oil is saturated fat. Whereas 11% is polyunsaturated. It is rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Apart from these nutrients, it contains modest amounts of vitamins E and K.

Health Benefits of Olive Oil: Expert’s words

One of the best Nutritionists Dr Anju Sood from Bangalore says “Olive is good for your heart, hair, skin and veins. Massaging with olive oil fastens wound healing.” 

Health benefits of Olive Oil are abundant!

Macrobiotic nutritionist Shilpa Arora quoted, “Olive oil is loaded with heart-protective polyphenols. It helps in lowering cholesterol. The mono-saturated fatty acids boost metabolism and aids weight loss.”

Dr Simran Saini of Fortis Hospital says, “Olive oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. It helps in improving good cholesterol (HDL). Olive oil is also good for digestion, and keeps your hormones balanced.”

Health Benefits of Olive Oil

1. Healthy Heart 

The monounsaturated fat in Olive oil is one of the healthiest fats. It reduces inflammation. Limits bad cholesterol and promote good cholesterol. Olive oil also improves blood vessel health. It manages blood clot and lowers blood pressure.

Studies say that olive oil may reduce strokes and heart diseases. That’s why olive oil is a great replacement for refined oils.

Also Read: How Anger affects your heart?

2. Smooth digestion

Research says consumption of olive oil might be beneficial for digestive diseases. It stimulates the digestive tract and works wonders on the gastrointestinal tract and colon. The monosaturated fats help in better mobility of food through the colon. It also eases bowel movement, thereby relieving constipation.

It is effective in treating IBS, constipation and other digestive troubles. The antioxidants help prevent inflammation, oxidative damage, and epigenetic changes. Some studies also suggest that olive oil may lower the risk of colorectal cancer. 

Mix a tablespoon of olive oil and a teaspoon of lemon juice for relieving constipation.

Also Read: Kunjala Kriya for digestion

3. Dealing with Depression

Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and omega 3. This has a stress-relieving effect on the brain. Studies also say that olive oil may help protect the nervous system. Thus, may be used in treating depression and anxiety.

Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, olive oil is good for the brain and memory. Some studies suggest it might also help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Experts say that olive oil can increase serotonin levels. This brain chemical is also called the happiness hormone. 

That means this natural ingredient in the diet can work as an anti-depressant. 

Also Read: Ayurvedic treatment for Depression

4. A Shield for your Skin 

Olive oil is rich in anti-oxidants. So, that adds the anti-ageing benefits to this oil. It composes of more than 80 per cent oleic acid. This helps in healing and repairing the skin.

The study also says that olive oil may cause a significant reduction in eczema. It also works great on clearing acne because of its anti-bacterial properties. Whether you add it to your salads or apply it on your skin, olive oil does wonders.

Also Read: 5 self-care tips for dry skin

5. Help your Hair 

A gentle massage of olive oil helps in taming dry, brittle hair. Studies say olive oil can stimulate hair growth. It slows the effects of hair loss. And its anti-bacterial properties protect the scalp.

Blend it with a carrier oil and massage your scalp thoroughly. 

I recommend a mixture prepared by blending coconut oil (1 cup), almond oil (3/4 cup), castor oil (1/2 cup), olive oil (1/4 cup) and Vitamin E oil (4-5 capsules).

Also Read: Cure hair fall in 7 days

6. Metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a condition characterized by a group of risk factors. It may increase disease risk, including obesity, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar levels. Olive oil improves features of metabolic syndromes, such as inflammation and blood sugar and regenerates healthy enzymes.

7. Relieves Pain

Olive oil contains oleocanthal an anti-inflammatory agent that helps in relieving pain. This makes Olive oil an excellent pain reliever that can be used externally as well as internally.

Apart from these benefits, Olive oil also aids in weight loss. It may help in reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Some studies suggest olive oil can help in treating rheumatoid arthritis. 

Also Read: 13 best and worst cooking oils

Health Benefits of Olive Oil : Ayurvedic Doctor

Olive oil is good for your health. There is no doubt about that! 

But prepping all your meals in olive oil might not be the best idea.

Firstly, it’s costly. And secondly, you need a variety of nutrients.

So, split up your cooking between olive oil, ghee and other edible oils to extract the benefits of each.

You can keep olive oil for those that demand less oil. And for those that demand a thick fat go for the desi ghee!

Ayurveda is all about balance. Be it balancing your mind, body, spirit or food!

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