Top Health Benefits of Olive Oil

The numerous health benefits of olive oil run almost as deep as its history. It may appear simple, but in fact, is one of the most complex oils used today. In order to reap the wide range of health benefits, we must take time to understand the creation process and the different types.

History

The exact origin of olive oil remains unknown, but evidence of the existence of olives dates back farther than 6,000 years ago. As one of the oldest cultivated trees, it first grew in Crete, Greece in 3500BC. At that time, the tree spread to the Mediterranean basin, which includes African shores and Southern Europe. In 2000BC, olives were found inside Egyptian tombs; additionally, that date is when cultivation began to play a major role in the Crete economy. Crete began the first olive export to Greece, Asia Minor, and Northern Africa. Olives were a luxury in Greece and it became not only a food item, but was highly regarded as a beauty treatment.

Types of Oil

Most countries utilize the International Olive Oil Council to define quality and standards; however, the United States does not adhere to these standards. Instead, the United States follows the USDA's 1948 Classification System, which includes the following qualities: extra-virgin, virgin, refined, pure, olive pomace, refined olive pomace, and lite. Please read the following for descriptions of the most common types:

Extra-virgin oil is the highest quality due to its high mineral and vitamin content. In order for olive oil to be considered extra-virgin, the oil must be produced by extraction methods that contain no chemicals or hot water, be first cold-pressed, have an acidity level of less than 1 percent, and have perfect taste.

Virgin olive oil, like extra-virgin, is first-cold pressed and produced without chemicals or hot water; however, virgin oil may contain an acidity level up to 3.3 percent. The flavor can vary and the taste is less mild than extra-virgin varieties.

Refined olive oil is created by refining virgin oil. The acidity level is greater than 3.3 percent; the finished product is tasteless and the odor is unpleasant.

Pure olive oil is a mix of virgin and refined. It has the same acidity level as virgin and can withstand high heat. The nutritional content is lower than virgin oil, which make it inexpensive compared to high quality oils. Pure oil is commonly used as all-purpose oil.

Light and extra-light are types of oils that contrary to the name do not contain less calories, but are a blend of refined oils that are made from the lowest quality oils created through chemical processing.

Health Benefits

Olive oil is composed of monounsaturated fat, which is considered a healthy fat. Introducing monounsaturated fats into your diet is healthier than ingesting saturated and trans fats. Monounsaturated fats offer a plethora of health benefits, when used in moderation. The following is a list of all of the wonderful health benefits it can impart.

It has the capability to lower blood pressure due to containing beneficial antioxidants, which are most prevalent in extra-virgin oil. The antioxidants, called polyphenol, are believed to be the primary source to help lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. To receive maximum benefits, men should consume four tablespoons and women should consume three tablespoons, daily.

Research shows that monounsaturated fats, as found in olive oil, contain oleic acid and is capable of reducing the instance of cancer. Oleic acid is capable of reducing the effect of the cancer forming gene, called oncogene. Olive oil is noted to positively help breast, prostate, and colon cancer.

Olive oil is able to control blood sugar specifically by lowering blood glucose levels. Diabetics, or border-line diabetics, are instructed to follow a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet. Olive oil can help control blood sugar even if diabetics switch to a high fat diet, considering most of that fat comes from olive oil.

Monounsaturated fats that are found in plant oils are best at controlling good and bad cholesterol.

Consumption can help your body rid itself of bad cholesterol, known as LDL cholesterol. Additionally, this oil does not negatively effect the levels of good cholesterol, known as HDL cholesterol. In fact, it can even raise the levels of HLD cholesterol providing a double benefit.

Researchers state that the extra-virgin variety contains an anti-inflammatory ingredient. The ingredient, oleocanthal, helps it to act as a pain reducer, much like over-the-counter aspirin. It will not show immediate results, but can provide pain reducing benefits if consistently ingested over a period of time.

How to Cook with Olive Oil

Now that the health benefits have been explained, let's discuss some of the common methods of how to cook with this oil.

High quality, extra-virgin oils should be reserved for use in dressings, dips, and vinaigrettes. Replace oil for butter in baked potatoes, or brush onto cooked vegetables or fish. Sprinkle rosemary, basil, cracked black pepper, and sea salt on top of extra-virgin oil for a delicious bread dip.

If you are to saut or fry, choose a combination oil which is a mix of extra-virgin and regular olive oil. Use olive oil grade for deep-frying which works wonderful due to its high smoke point of 410 degrees Fahrenheit.

One additional way to incorporate olive oil into your diet: use it for non-stick oil when a recipe calls for butter or spray oil. Drizzle onto your pan and spread evenly with a paper towel to ensure complete coverage.

Who Should Avoid Olive Oil

Allergies are uncommon, but should not be ignored. In most cases, an allergy is a mild occurrence and the symptoms will go away in a short amount of time. On the other hand, a person can experience a more severe allergic reaction, which can lead to anaphylactic shock. A person who suspects an allergy should take note of the following symptoms: stomach or chest pain, rash, migraine, or red, itchy eyes. These allergies are rare and as a key part of theMediterraneandiet, the health benefits of olive oil are well recognized and enjoyed by millions.

There are many common foods that are beneficial for health. For more on the health benefits of honey or how red wine benefits your diet visit thehealthbenefitsof.com.

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Olive Oil Uses: Olive Oil Hair Treatment

Olive oil has been used throughout the centuries for many purposes. This oil, which is extracted from the fruits of olive tree, is well-known for its therapeutic, cosmetic and culinary uses. Medicinal uses of olive oil include its ability to control cholesterol and diseases like gastritis and ulcers. Olive oil uses are not restricted to medicinal and culinary ones only. This oil is also beneficial for hydrating and softening the skin and for making the hair stronger and healthier. How can you make use of olive oil for the wellness of your hair? Let us find out!

Olive Oil and Hair Care

It is believed that the ancient Egyptians were the ones, who started using olive oil for cosmetic purposes. For them, olive oil uses included skin care as well as hair care. Olive oil is good for hair in many ways. It can act as a conditioner, as a remedy to get rid of lice and also can improve the texture of dry, damaged hair with split ends. If you have dry and damaged hair, which is not manageable, then olive oil is the perfect solution for your problem. It is also good to fix frizzy or static hair. Olive oil hair treatments can make the hair stronger, healthy and manageable. It can also help keep your scalp clean. The best part of olive oil hair treatment is that this oil is one of the easily available household material. Moreover, you can do the treatment on your own.

Olive Oil Hair Treatment

Olive oil is a rich source of mono-unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidant vitamin E, which can moisturize and nourish hair. Always try to use the best quality olive oil for better results. Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil is considered the best, as the process of extraction of this oil (cold pressing) helps to retain the vitamins and minerals in it.

• Take the required amount of olive oil in a bowl. If the oil is stored in the refrigerator, keep the bowl (with oil) outside for a while to bring it to room temperature.
• Meanwhile, you have to get ready for the oil treatment. It is better to wear some old clothes, as oil spots can ruin clothes. Or else, you can wrap a towel around, to protect the clothes.
• Brush your hair and part it with a comb. Heat the oil for around 15 to 20 seconds or till it gets lukewarm. Apply the oil on your hair with your fingertips. Make sure that you are not using your nails for the task.
• Dip the fingertips in the bowl and gently massage the scalp, through the parting.
• Now, make a new parting at a distance of about one inch from the first one and repeat the massaging process.
• Repeat this, until the entire scalp is covered. You have to apply some oil on the hair too.
• After the oiling process is over, cover the head with a hot towel, in order to keep it warm, so that the oil can be absorbed.
• Keep your head covered for about 30 minutes to one hour. Then, unwrap the cover and wash your hair with a mild shampoo. As the hair is oily, you may need more amount of shampoo than you normally use.
• For better results, you may steam your hair, before washing it. This is beneficial for preventing dandruff. You may also apply a conditioner after washing the hair.

Once the hair is dry, you will be able to feel the difference. It will be more smooth, silky and shiny and also easy to manage. Olive oil hair treatment can offer good results, provided you repeat it once every week.

The above said is the most simple and popular olive oil hair treatment. Some people add a few drops (around five drops will do) of essential oil like lavender oil, rosemary oil, frankincense essential oil, etc., to the olive oil that is meant for hair massage. In some regions, apple cider vinegar is used to rinse the hair, after the olive oil hair treatment. You may find numerous other variations of olive oil hair treatment. Choose the one that is best suited for you. 

Article by: Sonia Nair

Top Reasons to Love Olive Oil

Some of us have never been introduced to the culinary life Mediterranean style. It's never too late, however, for that discovery. The benefits are many. We can consider at least four reasons why olive oil belongs in your life.

Olive Oil Everywhere

When in Italy you probably will not be served butter with that beautiful bread. Typically butter has other purposes. In a restaurant - excuse me: ristorante - or even a café - chances are if you must have something to go with that bread, it will be olive oil. Many have distinct flavors, created by infusing herbs and different kinds of fruit or spices with the olives.

Extra Virgin, Virgin and just Olive Oil - what does it all mean?

In the first place this oil is a natural product. There is a process for releasing and capturing the oil that has been almost the same for thousands of years, using just about the same techniques. You can feel the excitement in understanding the presence of the fragrant and tasty oil from olives in human society since ancient times.

The differences between Extra Virgin and Virgin involve acidity. Basically there is a standard, a grading process for the olives. Extra Virgin Olive Oil - nicknamed by some as EVOO - means pressed with no heat, no chemical usage, no treatments. That's why it is known as cold pressed! - and has a lower percentage of acidity.

Lifestyle and Health Benefits

In simple language, Extra Virgin Olive Oil is known to play a part in:

* Lowering bad cholesterol
* Acting as a powerful anti-oxidant
* Reducing the risk of certain cancers.

Studies continue to show you can be healthier incorporating this magical oil into your life, gaining a lifestyle that has all these advantages. And it tastes good too, mixing it in with many kinds of foods both cooked and uncooked.

Cooking with Olive Oil

Go ahead and cook with it. Eggs, too? But of course. Butter is not mandatory. So sizzle up your French toast, oil your pan for an omelette and add a dollop to rice while it's steaming. Using it to prepare meat, seafood, vegetables and fish will result in food that is healthy and delicious.

You Didn't Expect This One

In the kitchen, while you are in the heat of your bubbling pots, take advantage of any drips from the olive oil bottle by wiping them up with your hands; it's a treat to your skin. There you have another great benefit: a spa treatment while cooking!

Olive Oil is marvelous for hair and skin and is used in natural remedies. When you shop for it, take the time to read the labels carefully. Some bottles labeled as Virgin are often blended with canola and other oils. That's okay sometimes, but reach for the real thing! Get ready for the good life - you'll see.

I'm Rebecca Ferndell, a food enthusiast, and I'd like to share what I continue to learn about cooking, food, health and recipes too. Join me at http://www.DishingFood.blogspot.com

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Olive Oil Helps Combat Constipation, Wrinkles, Razor Burn, Ear Aches, And More

Dear Health Enthusiasts,

Only several years ago, olive oil was only really thought of as a specialty cooking oil you would buy in the "foreign food" section of the grocery store, mostly when you wanted to whip up a Mediterranean-type recipe that called for it. Even I was unaware of all the health benefits of olive oil, as well as its multiple other uses, until just a short time ago. Now, I routinely recommend it to all my patients, 1-2 tablespoons daily, for all the wonderful health benefits it confers. And that's not all. My patients are frequently sharing with me new uses of olive oil that they've discovered and I'd like to share some of those with you.

The Incredible Olive and Its Oil 

I'm sure you've heard of the health benefits of olive oil as they've been all over the news in the last few years. But just to recap, research has shown that it is full of monounsaturated fatty acids, or MUFA's, that help raise HDL (good) cholesterol and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. It's one of the basic ingredients in the Mediterranean diet that has helped people in those regions have much lower than average levels of heart disease and cancer.

In addition, it is also a potent antioxidant that helps scavenge and wipe out health-destroying free radicals that can lead to cancer. In fact, olive oil has been shown to protect the cells of the colon, prostate and uterine endometrium from cancerous changes.

If that weren't enough, recent research has shown that it also may help normalize blood sugar levels which benefits diabetics. Cold pressed extra virgin olive oils are the best types to use as they contain the most nutrients. Cheaper "pure" oils do not have the same amount of nutrients.

Now, allow me to share with you some even more interesting uses of this popular cooking oil.

Face/Body Skin: You may have seen olive oil soap in your pharmacy or grocery store. With its antioxidant (chlorophyll, carotenoids, Vitamin E) properties, it is very good for skin. It can neutralize skin damaging free radicals and help prevent skin cancer. It cleanses without stripping the skin's natural oils.

Olive oil contains linoleic acid which actually prevents water from evaporating, thereby keeping a barrier layer of moisture on the skin. In fact, women in Europe, Middle East and Asia have routinely used it as skin beauty oil for centuries. Putting a few caps in a warm bath, helps lubricate body skin and using a few drops of it as a facial moisturizer helps keep faces wrinkle free and soft. It's not just for women though - several of my male patients tell me that they apply olive oil to their face before they razor shave to get a close, smooth shave that leaves their face soft.

Hair: Some of my female patients have shared with me that they also use olive oil as a hair conditioner. Rub a few drops into the ends of your hair before you shampoo it, leave it for about 20 minutes, and then wash it. Hair is left tangle-free and shining.

Weight control: As I mentioned above, this oil has been shown to be able to normalize blood sugar levels by lowering insulin levels. Taking 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon before eating a lower carbohydrate meal slows down the rise of blood sugar after a meal.

Stomach Upsets: Long used in Mediterranean countries for stomach upsets, take 1 tablespoon of olive oil on an empty stomach to stimulate digestion.

Stay Regular: Another favorite use is to remedy constipation. In hot water, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and drink.

Earaches: Warm olive oil has been a folk remedy for earaches for eons, mainly because it works, especially when the cause of the ache is from water getting in the ear or built up ear wax. First, be sure that you do not have a punctured ear drum! Do not put anything in your ear if you have severe pain and/or see blood coming from it. Instead, visit an Urgent Care or your doctor immediately. If you have gotten water in your ear, or feel you may have a buildup of wax, with an eye dropper, drop 1-2 drops oil down into the ear canal. Lie for a few minutes on your opposite side and then turn over and allow the oil to run out of your ear. This works to dry up any water that's there and liquefy ear wax so that it is easier to remove. Remember; never put Q-tips or any other instruments down into your ear canal.

Fingernails: Keep your nails and the skin around them looking great by soaking your fingertips in an olive oil, lemon juice mixture, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice,

Pets: Believe it or not, one of my patients even uses it to prevent hairballs and promote shiny coats in their cats, adding 1 tsp to their food.

Remove Paint/Car Grease: Ever get paint or car grease on your hands or in your hair and couldn't get it out? Olive oil can remove dried paint and car grease from your hair and your skin by simply rubbing some into the affected areas. The oil loosens the hold of the grease or paint from the skin and hair, which renders it easy to remove.

The more advanced our technologies and the more complicated our world becomes, it's comforting to know that there are age-old natural substances that we can rely on to keep us healthy and aid us in our simple activities of daily living. We don't always have to turn to chemically based, often toxic, cleaning agents or drugs when we can turn to a simple, wonder from Mother Nature like olive oil. I'm sure you'll find even more uses for this incredibly valuable oil!

Stay Well,

Mark Rosenberg, M.D.

My informational health site, Healthy Answers, offers a wealth of articles about the latest natural and practical health advancements, prevention methods and treatment options.

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