It is essential for any diet to contain levels of fatty acids and these are contained in olive oil in the form of alpha linoleic acid and linoleic acid which are also known by their respective names of Omega 3 and Omega 6. For those whose nutrition intake is poor then the inclusion of these vital nutrients can be assisted by an intake of olive oil.

However, there are many types and levels of fatty acids found in olive oil some are essential and some are not. The greatest levels of non-essential fatty acid is known by its generic term omega 9 or Oleic acid and makes up to almost three quarters of the olive oil fats. The purpose of this non-essential fatty acid is to that it acts as an anti-oxidant and protects genetic structures in the body and acts as a defence against toxins to cell membranes.

The soft structure of healthy cells allow for the intake of nutrients and the release of hormones and proteins into the body. If the structure of the cell membrane compromised or damaged then nutrient intake would be hampered thus creating problems for the release of those hormones and proteins that enable the body to function properly.

For those concerned with keeping cholesterol levels low they should consider olive oil as an alternative to other fats as it does not contain any amount of cholesterol at all. Though olive oil does contain some saturated fat called palmitoleic acid, or omega-7, the levels are very low and only comprise a tenth of the fatty acids.

Protection from damage to arteries and stem cells can be found in certain anti-oxidants and anti inflammatories, known as tyrosol and hyroxityrosol which are contained in phenolic substances. So, although saturated fats are usually known to increase levels of cholesterol that is not the case in those contained in olive oil.

Other anti-oxidants contained in olive oil are derived from vitamin E and are known as tocopherols and beta-carotene. Olive oil also contains magnesium in the form of chlorophyll, which is found in all green plants and is the reason why olive oil has its distinctive colour. It is known to be beneficial to those who suffer from coronary related diseases as it contains high levels of magnesium, which is often found to be lacking in those people.

Healthy tissues rely on the efficient delivery of oxygen. Squalene is a substance contained in olive oil that assists in the delivery of oxygen to the body’s organs and also assists in the blocking of cholesterol intake
from certain foods. The facts about olive oil should prove to be a convincing enough argument for you to include it into your daily diet.

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The health advantages of olive oil in the diet is proven through history

Olive has always played an important and in some cases focal part of diet. The properties of olive oil have been espoused for generations by those who understand its health benefits. Even from the advent of an age where our first tools were created, elements of the Mediterranean diet were instinctively used for the impact they have on our wellbeing.

There are many types of olive oil and they may not always suit an individual’s taste or palate. For some, the flavour of olive oil is not so appealing. For others, it is the saturated fat content that may cause some concern. In this vein it is well worthwhile researching the different types of olive oil available in the hopes of one being compatible with your particular needs. The type of olive oil that is most beneficial is extra virgin olive oil and to help you make a considered choice there are many different brands to choose from though the health benefits of each remain the same. The following are to name but a few: Pompeian, Spectrum, Tre Tomi, Bertolli, Antic and Italia.

The health properties of olive oil from countries in the Mediterranean have been thoroughly researched and the findings of many institutes that carry out such studies affirm that olive oil is indeed beneficial to health.

Olive oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids and well as other essential vitamins and as such is deemed to be an appropriate fat to maintain a healthy heart.

What the properties of olive oil do for you is to provide protection against coronary related illness, breast and colon cancer, arthritis and assist in enabling the gall bladder to operate efficiently. Olive oil also maintains a healthy heart by reducing arterial damage.

What may be of particular use to most people in their daily lives is that an intake of olive oil can be converted in the body to create energy.

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Olive Paste

Olive paste can be difficult to find unless you have access to specialty shops or upscale supermarkets. However, it is simple to create your own. Simply chop 3 cups of olives in a blender for about ten seconds, Then add 3 teaspoons of olive oil and 3 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar, and a couple of grated olive cloves. Blend until you have created a somewhat smooth paste. This should only take a few seconds. You have a paste that is truly delicious and will keep in the refrigerator for over a week.

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