Have you ever wondered why the world has taken a turn in switching to olive oil instead of coconut oil or any other vegetable oil? Well, this is not the case just for edible oil, many beauty products use olive oil as their main ingredient for body wash, scrub, face wash, lotion, and even beauty products.
The answer to this is olive oil is a healthier oil than any other regular oil that you use in your household. With unsaturated fatty acids, it deposits healthy fat in your body when consumed, unlike other vegetable oils. When the question of skin benefits comes, olive oil has proven that it provides deep moisturization and its antibacterial properties help to keep the acne spots away.
In this blog, we are going to discover the hidden secrets of olive oil as an edible oil, and some interesting recipes that you can try. So, if you are a health enthusiast and want to switch to olive oil then this blog is for you.
Benefits Of Adding Olive Oil To Your Diet
Olive oil contains concentrated extracts of olive that are widely used in cooking, medicine, cosmetics, soaps, and as a fuel for lamps. The health benefits of olive oil are backed by scientific findings and are explained below:
☑️ Anti-Cancer Properties
The polyphenols and antioxidants present in olive oil help to fend off oxidative stress and lower the risk of developing cancer cells in the colon and breast. Several studies have concluded this with test-tube demonstrations and have also found that olive oil can help hinder the progression of cancer cells. The polyphenols, hydroxytyrosol, and oleocanthal have anti-microbial and neuroprotective properties that promote overall health.
☑️ Improves Memory And Brain Function
The oleocanthal polyphenol in olive oil has been considered to treat patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Several studies conclude olive oil plays a bigger role in restoring the blood-brain barrier function and decreasing inflammation in the brain. Another study stated that the beta-amyloid plaques inside the brain cells are also removed with the help of olive oil. These beta-amyloid plaques are the salient features indicating the progress of Alzheimer’s disease.
☑️ Eliminates The Symptoms Of Depression
In recent findings, researchers have stated that olive oil not only fends off oxidative stress to remove chronic illness but also helps to treat the symptoms of depression. The nutrients present in olive oil support the central nervous system and increase the production of serotonin which is the hormone that elevates your mood. A study suggested that participants saw an improved mood when given a Mediterranean diet prepared with olive oil.
☑️ Aids In Bone Health
Extra virgin olive oil tastes better than regular olive oil and also has increased effects on reducing inflammation in your body. A 2019 study proved to be a wake-up call when women with osteoarthritis symptoms were given food prepared with olive oil. These participants saw a drastic change in their bone density and strength, with improvements in joint pain. Olive oil also helps to absorb vitamin D and calcium which are necessary for bone formation and maintenance.
☑️ Helps To Shed Off Inches From Your Body
The major benefactor of olive oil is that it helps to remove body fat effectively. A study from 2018, suggests that switching to olive oil for your salad dressing and meals can help reduce waist circumference and abdominal fat. The regulation of blood sugar levels and blood pressure also benefited from the olive oil, which acts as a stimulant for losing weight.
Healthy Recipes With Olive Oil
There are many recipes that you can come across with olive oil, but our choice of vegetables and style can surely enhance your taste pallets. Try this interesting yet easy-to-make recipe for your next meal.
☑️ Mediterranean Grilled Vegetables
Enhance your flavor buds to the Mediterranean with this colorful dish. Toss a colorful blend of zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and pink onions in olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. Grill to perfection, enhancing the herbal flavors. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a dose of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.
☑️ Lemon-Herb Baked Salmon
Elevate your omega-3 fatty acids consumption with a succulent lemon-herb baked salmon. Marinate salmon filets in a blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of herbs like dill and parsley. Bake till the fish flakes without difficulty, resulting in a dish that’s not the simplest scrumptious but additionally rich in wholesome fats and antioxidants.
☑️ Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Create a refreshing Caprese salad that celebrates the simplicity of fresh components. Layer slices of ripe tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze made by combining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey. This traditional salad is a symphony of flavors that highlights the fruitiness of notable olive oil.
☑️ Garlic-Herb Quinoa Pilaf
Transform a basic quinoa dish into a culinary pleasure with a garlic-herb quinoa pilaf. Sauté quinoa in olive oil with minced garlic, then cook it in vegetable or meat broth. Toss in a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley and thyme before serving. This healthy facet dish boasts a super stability of protein, fiber, and aromatic olive oil-infused goodness.
☑️ Olive Oil and Rosemary Focaccia
Indulge in the artwork of bread-making with homemade olive oil and rosemary focaccia. Knead a tender dough enriched with extra virgin olive oil and fresh rosemary. Allow it to rise, then bake to golden perfection. The result is a fragrant, rustic bread with a crispy crust showcasing the flexibility and rich taste of olive oil.
Final Thoughts
Extra virgin olive oil has several health benefits that you can reward your loved ones and yourself with. Finding the right olive oil that will suit your health requirements and taste is not very difficult nowadays, so replace your regular cooking oil with olive oil. You will not regret making this decision, as it helps to treat rheumatoid arthritis, and high blood pressure, fends off heart strokes, and improves brain function.
