Benefits of Olive Oil

According to a recent study, olive oil protects against inflammation, oxidative stress and cardiovascular risk caused by aging. Learn more about their properties and this recent research that supports their consumption.

Scientific studies provide more and more evidence of the beneficial properties of olive oil for our health. Just a few weeks ago, a team of researchers from the Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology of the University of Córdoba announced the results of a study in which they show that olive oil has a protective effect against different diseases. In his research, he studied how oil affects the plasma proteins of young (6 months) or old (24 months) rats, fed throughout their lives with diets containing virgin olive oil or sunflower oil as a fat source. In this way, they found that in those animals fed with olive oil, plasma levels of acute phase proteins (present in inflammatory processes) were reduced, in proteins that are common in situations of oxidative stress (which cause damage to cells) and related to blood coagulation, cardiovascular risk and metabolism and lipid transport.
Inexhaustible source of health

Thanks to its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid), olive oil provides other important benefits:


    Elevates HDL cholesterol levels (good)
    Lowers LDL-c (bad cholesterol)
    Benefits the control of arterial hypertension
    Reduces the appearance of thrombosis and prevents the onset of diabetes


Watch the amount you consume and learn to use it

The recommended daily intake is three to six servings. However, people who suffer from obesity and who are under dietary treatment should control it following the advice of their doctor.


The use of olive oil in Mediterranean cuisine is essential. As a dressing of salads and stews, and even for frying potatoes. In the latter case, nutritionists recommend its use over any other vegetable oil, since at high temperatures it still maintains its properties.

Surfing the internet, we have also found the website of the Organization Organización Interprofesional del Aceite de Oliva, which offers interesting recommendations on how to use olive oil.

Do not forget to include this millenary food in your daily diet, and your dishes will gain in flavor and your health will be strengthened!

Did you find this post useful? Spread it among people that you think may be interested in learning more about nutrition and health issues.


Source: Spanish Heart Foundation.