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I don't know if you've noticed, but in the recipes I've posted (as well as any future recipe post) olive oil is usually a reoccurring ingredient…mainly extra virgin olive oil. I cook with olive oil religiously, replacing it with fats like butter or margarine. I can't start my meals without it! Some of you may not be familiar with olive oil, but I assure you, it would be a great addition to your kitchen! You can do anything from frying to salad dressing, it just depends on which olive oil you use. What's the difference?!?! I'm glad you asked...
*Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The oil with the highest quality. It is extracted from olives through a process where the oil is removed using only pressure and not temperature (also know as cold pressed). This process is the best way to keep all of the good stuff in the oil, as well as maintaining the olive flavor.
*Virgin Olive Oil: Same process as Extra Virgin Olive Oil except riper olives are used.
*Pure Olive Oil: Usually a mix of the first 2 oils and refined olive oil. Refined olive oil is just fancy talk for using chemicals and high temperatures to get rid of the taste of olives that may not be in the best condition.
Now that you're an expert on the differences between the 3 common type of olive oils, let's talk about the health benefits. All of these oils basically equal out as far as calories and fat content (so moderation is key). However, because high temperatures and chemicals are used in pure olive oil, the health benefits of it are reduced. Other than that, studies have show olive oil can help with several ailments:
*Cancer: Most commonly breast cancer
*Heart Disease: Reduces cholesterol levels and the risk of heart attack
*Blood Pressure: Helps reduce blood pressure levels
*Diabetes: Enhances insulin sensitivity and helps improve blood sugar control
*Obesity: Although this is still an oil (high fat content), studies show that it can help reduce fat. Olive oil is high in monosaturated fat (which is a good thing).
*Osteoporosis: Helps improve bone thickness and calcium absorption
*Stroke: Studies show that consumption of olive oil may help prevent strokes
*Digestion: Aids in healthy digestive health
The beauty of this healthy fat is that it doesn't always have to be consumed for you to benefit from it. Olive oil can help protect your skin from damage, promote cell regeneration, improve your immune health, and promote natural hair growth. Studies even show that olive oil can help with mental illnesses like depression. I'm not saying to go out and drink 8 ounces of olive oil a day, but all you need is at least 2 tablespoons of extra virgin (daily) to benefit from the great things olive oil has to offer.
There you have it! A brief crash course in the world of olive oil. Now stop reading and go get some!
-Let's eAt!
Credits:
http://livinggreenmag.com/2013/11/07/food-health/difference-different-olive-oils-salads-cooking/
http://www.oliveoiltimes.com/olive-oil
http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/26/health/five-things-olive-oil/
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