6 Amazing Health Benefits of Olive Oil

A wonderful secret of many Mediterranean recipes, derived from olives, olive oil is widely recognised as one of the world’s healthiest and favourite oils. With its distinct pungent flavor, olive oil adds charm to many dishes and health & culinary circuits cannot stop raving about its benefits. The oil not only serves health benefits but it is an all-rounder oil that also packs a bevy of skin, hair and beauty benefits too. In this article, we will be looking at its health benefits.

# Source Of Good Cholesterol

Consumption of olive oil can help in lowering the levels of bad cholesterol in our body. This is because the oil contains minimum levels of saturated and polyunsaturated fats. It also helps in promoting the flow of High-Density lipoproteins also called the good cholesterol that helps in lowering the risks of heart diseases.

# Aids Weight Loss

If you are looking for shedding some extra pounds then, switch to extra virgin oil. Extra virgin oil is said to be the best quality olive oil as it is unrefined and unprocessed and contains a higher concentration of natural vitamins and minerals. Packed with monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), olive oil helps in promoting the feeling of satiety, keeps blood levels stable & also helps in keeping the heart healthy thereby assisting in weight loss.

# Source Of Anti-oxidants

Next, on the list of amazing benefits of olive oil for health is that it is a good source of antioxidants. It contains some powerful antioxidants such as vitamin E, carotenoids and phenolic compounds that help in lowering the creation of damaging free radicals in the body. They also offer protection from blood lipid oxidation, have anti-carcinogenic potential, oxidative stress resistance, fight inflammation and may reduce your risk of chronic diseases.

# Strengthens Bones

We all know that calcium is responsible for maintaining good bone health. However, there is one more ingredient that contributes to this field and that is olive oil. The consumption of olive oil helps in improving bone mineralization and calcification thereby preventing osteoporosis.

# Helps To Prevent Diabetes

Furthermore, on the list of amazing benefits of olive oil for health is that it can help in keeping blood sugar levels under control. Extra virgin olive oil is low in saturated fats and contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates that further helps in regulating blood sugar levels and also improves insulin sensitivity.

# May Treat Depression

A diet rich in olive oil helps in increasing the levels of serotonin – the happiness hormone. Olive oil acts as an anti-depressant and offers protection from mental illness & depression.