The benefits of "liquid gold”
Olive oil is the protagonist of the Mediterranean diet where since ancient times our ancestors had realized its value. As is well known, Homer had described olive oil as "liquid gold", while Hippocrates had clearly recognized its healing properties. Olives, where olive oil comes from, are traditionally grown in the Mediterranean, with Greece consistently being one of
the countries with the largest olive oil production.
5 important benefits of olive oil are listed below:
1. Contains a large number of antioxidants
They are found in olive oil, being biologically active and reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases.
2. High content of monounsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fats are the so-called "good quality fat", the main source of which is olive oil. They protect against various diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, while they tend to slightly reduce "bad" (LDL) cholesterol. However, it is important to note that they do not affect or -according to other researchers- slightly increase HDL levels ("good" cholesterol).
3. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties. It contains nutrients such as oleic acid & oleocanthal, which fight inflammation.
4. Helps to treat rheumatoid arthritis. There is no diet that cures rheumatoid arthritis; however olive oil can help reduce pain and swelling of joints as the beneficial effects are greatly increased when combined with fish oil.
5. Helpful in combating depression. All the more studies support the claim that the right diet can aid in treating and preventing diseases associated with the brain. The Mediterranean diet and olive oil in particular have been linked to the improvement of depression.
