by Eileen Eva

Created on: September 27, 2010

Containing about 75% of oleic acid, Olive is among the best natural sources of monounsaturated fats used in lowering cholesterol levels in the blood. Initially used and cultivated in Mediterranean region, Olive bears fruits that contain essential oil known as Olive oil which is used for cooking, in cosmetics and soaps, in pharmaceuticals, and fuel.

Olive fruits are usually pressed or crushed so as to obtain different types Olive oil. The types of Olive oil are obtained through different pressing processes. The types include Extra Virgin containing about 0.8% acidity, is the best and obtained from the first press. Virgin oil which contains about 2% acidity is the second best and obtained from the second press. Other types of olive oil include Pure Olive oil, Olive oil, Olive pomace oil, Lampante oil (for lighting lamps and not eating), and Refined Olive oil.

Olive oil contains a couple of beneficial properties and vitamins such as irons, copper, Vitamin E, laxative, and anti-inflammatory. Because of these properties, Olive oil can be used to protect against free radicals. Vitamin E, an essential fat-soluble antioxidant, helps in neutralizing free radicals. In addition to this, Vitamin E combined with monounsaturated fats provide safety measures for processes that allow production of free radicals.

Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, Olive oil also helps during treatment and reducing severity of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, as well as asthma. These are amongst conditions pursuant to free radicals.

According to studies, individuals who consumed 2 tablespoons (25ml) of Olive especially Virgin Oil, per day, increase levels of antioxidant levels in the blood and decrease cholesterol levels hence protecting us from heart disease. Free radicals cause cholesterol oxidation which may damage the blood vessels and arteries causing heart attack. To prevent this oxidation, Olive oil provides us with Vitamin E to assist in free radicals neutralization thus preventing heart disease.

In addition, Olive oil helps in reducing or stabilizing blood pressure. According to studies, patients with high blood pressure reduced or completely stopped using hypertension medications after they introduced daily consumption of Olive oil.

Olive oil also helps in improving our gastrointestinal health. According to studies, free radicals were found to contribute to the mutation of colon cells into cancer cells. To prevent colon cancer and improve gastrointestinal health, Olive oil is essential as it contains monounsaturated fats and Vitamin E that help in lowering risks of colon cancer.

Sources:

The World’s Healthiest Foods - Olives

Healingdaily.com - Olive oil's health benefits

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