Oil is one of the most commonly used ingredients in cooking – and for good reason. Oil is a versatile ingredient that can help to add flavor and texture to a wide range of dishes.

In addition to being a useful ingredient in the kitchen, certain types of oil also offer some surprising health benefits. One such oil is extra virgin olive oil, which has been linked to a wide range of health benefits. Here are just a few of the ways that this common oil can benefit your health:.

1. It Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural process that occurs in the body in response to injury or infection. However, when inflammation is chronic, it can lead to a wide range of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Extra virgin olive oil is rich in polyphenols, which are compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. Consuming extra virgin olive oil on a regular basis may help to reduce your risk of chronic inflammation and the many health problems that it can cause.

2. It Helps to Protect Your Heart

Your heart is one of the most important organs in your body, and taking steps to protect it is essential for good health. Studies have shown that regularly consuming extra virgin olive oil can help to reduce your risk of heart disease.

Specifically, extra virgin olive oil has been linked to lower levels of LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol), as well as higher levels of HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol).

3. It May Help to Lower Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a common health problem that can increase your risk of many serious conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

Fortunately, consuming extra virgin olive oil may help to lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of these conditions. Studies have shown that consuming just a few tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil per day can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure.

4. It May Help to Protect Against Cancer

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and finding ways to prevent or treat this disease is a major priority for researchers.

One potential strategy is to consume foods that are rich in antioxidants, which are compounds that can help to protect your cells from damage. Extra virgin olive oil is rich in antioxidants, and some studies have suggested that consuming this oil may help to reduce your risk of cancer.

5. It May Help to Improve Your Brain Function

Your brain is one of the most complex organs in your body, and keeping it healthy is essential for overall health and wellbeing.

Some studies have suggested that consuming extra virgin olive oil may help to improve brain function, particularly in areas such as memory and learning.

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6. It May Help to Reduce Your Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a serious health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of this condition, and consuming extra virgin olive oil may be one such step.

Some studies have suggested that regularly consuming extra virgin olive oil can help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

7. It May Help to Protect Against Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common condition that can lead to weak, brittle bones. While this condition is most commonly associated with aging, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis at any age.

One such step is to consume foods that are rich in calcium and other bone-healthy nutrients. Extra virgin olive oil has been shown to help increase calcium absorption, which may help to protect against osteoporosis.

8. It May Help to Improve Your Digestive Health

Your digestive system plays an essential role in your overall health and wellbeing. Unfortunately, many people suffer from digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation.

Consuming extra virgin olive oil on a regular basis may help to improve your digestive health and reduce symptoms of digestive issues. This is because extra virgin olive oil is rich in healthy fats, which can help to lubricate your intestines and keep your digestive system functioning smoothly.

9. It May Help to Improve Your Skin Health

Your skin is your largest organ, and keeping it healthy is essential for overall health and wellbeing.

Some studies have suggested that consuming extra virgin olive oil may help to improve skin health, particularly in areas such as hydration and elasticity.

10. It May Help to Reduce Your Risk of Depression

Depression is a serious mental health condition that can have a major impact on your quality of life.

Studies have shown that consuming a Mediterranean-style diet (which includes plenty of extra virgin olive oil) may help to reduce your risk of depression.

Conclusion

Overall, extra virgin olive oil is a versatile ingredient that offers plenty of health benefits. Incorporating this oil into your diet on a regular basis may help to reduce your risk of a wide range of health problems, from heart disease to depression.

So why not start adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to your meals today? Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you.