The use of Olive oil as a culinary ingredient began in the Mediterranean, where the traditional tree crop was commonly cultivated. Today, it is used in dishes all around the world not only for its unique pungent taste but also for the health benefits that comes with consuming this type of organic oil.
Olive oil is a main ingredient found in the Mediterranean diet, a modern nutritional recommendation inspired by traditional dietary patterns of communities in some parts of Mediterranean nations such as Spain, Italy and Greece. The Mediterranean diet centers on heart-friendly components that are low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated fats and fiber.
There are several types of this oil but the most common is extra-virgin olive oil or EVOO, as culinary TV star Rachel Ray likes to call it. Extra-virgin is the most pure, concentrated form which has no chemical additives and has not undergone any chemical treatment. Because it is processed organically, most people prefer extra-virgin because its natural chemical composition and nutrients are retained.
Olive oil has a number of great health benefits that have been celebrated by scientists, chefs and regular individuals alike. Studies have concluded that olive oil contains high levels of antioxidative substances that not only removes toxins from the body but also enables the body to defend itself from heart disease by managing cholesterol. Its antioxidative elements have been observed to lower bad cholesterol such as LDL cholesterol and increase good or HDL cholesterol.
More than just an aid for cholesterol management, olive oil is also seen as a natural way to treat ulcers and gastritis. It has found to be better in alleviating symptoms of said gastric disorders by activating the secretion of bile and pancreatic hormones that help regulate normal digestive rhythms.
Because olive oil plays a vital role in the Mediterranean diet, more and more people are adapting to this kind of culinary habit to experience its health benefits. Another great reason to try out this type of diet is the newfound results from a study conducted in the Netherlands, where scientists have finally linked the consumption of olive oil to fertility. The study showed that women who follow the Mediterranean diet over a long period of time have higher chances of conceiving. Another study done in Spain revealed that in line with olive oil's natural ability to fight heart disease, it can also prevent cell inflammation by repressing genes that induce inflammation.
Whether you're a health buff looking to try other diets or just an ordinary person looking to improve your health, consider selecting a diet that caters to your physiological needs. The Mediterranean diet is one of many that bring you a number of health benefits, so make sure to select one that fits your lifestyle as well.
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