The Benefits of Consuming Olive Oil:
Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, is very healthy for individual consumption. As the name suggests, olive oil is derived from olives and consists of saturated fat and polyunsaturated fats, commonly known as omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.
However, oleic acid is olive oil's most predominant fatty acid. It makes up almost 75% of the oil content. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fat that is known to decrease inflammation and has been linked to having anti-cancer properties.
Polyunsaturated and Monounsaturated Fatty Acids:
Most people do not get enough polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) in their system. However, research has established that consuming olive oil is one way to raise PUFA and MUFA.
Studies found that olive oil can help with constipation relief, an alternative to mineral oil known to help soften stools. In general, by consuming olive oil daily, studies have shown an increase in bowel movements.
There are other benefits to consuming olive oil. Not only is it the most sought oil to cook with nowadays, but did you know that olive oil has been acknowledged to be good for the heart? The oleic acid found to be the monounsaturated fat in olive oil helps reduce the risk of heart disease.
Oleic Acid and Olive Oil:
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that consuming oils with a high content of oleic acid instead of saturated fat can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
While the heart is being taken care of, consuming olive oil also assists with balancing blood sugar levels. In addition, olive oil supports bone health, especially in people prone to osteoporosis. Research has shown that bone density increases with at least 20 ml of olive oil daily.
Researchers also believe that some of the compounds found in olive oil have anti-inflammatory properties.
The Benefits of Olive Oil for the Skin:
Consuming olive oil is believed to help with skin health. Research suggests that olive oil has anti-cancer properties. More and more people are looking into utilizing olive oil as a facial moisturizer.
Olive oil is also rich in vitamins, one of which is vitamin E, which is ideal for the skin. Olive oil is also an antioxidant that helps reverse any skin damage, especially from cancer-damaging ultraviolet radiation. There have been skin soap products made from olive oil extracts. This soap's benefit is mainly its moisturizing and hydrating composition and the added boost of anti-bacterial properties.
It is important to remember that although consuming olive oil comes with many benefits, one should also keep in mind the calories it comes with it. There are many factors regarding calorie consumption and weight gain, which are different for everyone. However, keeping this in mind is in one's best interest.
It is also best to consume olive oil with other foods and make sure that it does not replace other healthy food choices.
References
Brusie, C. (2018, September 18). Olive oil benefits for your face. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/olive-oil-benefits-face
Sobel, A. (2019, June 21). Drinking olive oil: Good or bad? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/drinking-olive-oil