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Health Benefits of Olive Oil

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Olive oil isn’t just for dressing salads any more. The health benefits of olive oil are unrivaled, and research reveals more and more benefits all the time. In fact, we are only just beginning to understand the numerous ways olive oil can improve our health. We’ve long known that olive oil is an incredible flavor profile and can add depth to any dish. Olive oil is the cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet and is also considered an essential nutritional mainstay for the world’s longest-living cultures. Take a look at some of the incredible health benefits that olive oil can add to your diet and your life.

oliveoilOlive oil has been shown to reduce the risks of type 2 diabetes and strokes. We now know that a diet rich in monounsaturated fats such as the ones found in olive oil, nuts and seeds actually protects from many chronic diseases. A study published in the scientific journal Diabetes Care showed that a Mediterranean style diet rich in olive oil reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes by almost 50% compared to a low-fat diet. And, older individuals who consume olive oil daily may be protecting themselves from a stroke. A recent study in France identified thousands of individuals over the age of 65 and monitored their diets. Those with high olive oil consumption were found to have a 30% decrease in risks factors for strokes.

A diet rich in olive oil may actually be able to slow down the aging of the heart, too. In a recent study, Spanish researchers discovered that a diet rich in olive oil or other monounsaturated fats could improve the arterial function of elderly individuals. These individuals were also found to have lower risks for osteoporosis, depression, and skin cancer. All from luscious olive oil and it’s rich antibiotic properties.

The most exciting discovery could be that olive oil may protect against breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in Western countries. While a diet rich in fats is directly related to a higher incidence of cancer, some types of fats can actually play a protective role against the development of these tumors. Such is the case of virgin olive oil which is rich in oleic acid, a mono-unsaturated fatty acid, and contains several antioxidants. A moderate and regular intake of virgin olive oil, characteristic of the Mediterranean diet, is associated with a low incidences of specific types of cancer, including breast cancer, as well as with having a protective role against coronary diseases and other health problems.

Farmview Market carries some wonderful extra virgin olive oils from Georgia producers Georgia Olive Farms, Oliver FarmsTown Square Olive Oil, Solio Family, our own Select Blend, and more. Stop in to find high quality olive oils for your health and culinary needs!