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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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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What Are the Benefits of Olive Oil?

Olive oil has been used for thousands of years. The Egyptians were one of the first to discover the many healing properties of it. Often used for personal skin care, it was also known to promote general good health. Today, this beneficial oil is used as a natural supplement to improve heart health, lower blood pressure, improve skin and ease the symptoms of some chronic diseases. Because there are so many benefits of it, there's no reason not to use it in a daily diet or as a supplement.

Heart Healthy Benefits

It's well known that countries like Greece and Italy that consume olive oil daily have lower rates of heart disease. It contains healthy fats that lower the risk of heart disease by reducing cholesterol. Olive oil has the ability to raise good cholesterol while lowering bad levels. These fats can also improve blood clotting abilities. This oil is a popular natural supplement because no other naturally occurring oil contains such high levels of these helpful fats.

Naturally Lower Blood Pressure

Many studies have been done on the benefits of olive oil. Research shows that it can naturally lower blood pressure in addition to controlling cholesterol levels. A diet high in olive oil has been shown to reduce blood pressure up to 50% in some patients. The study involved patients consuming 3 to 4 tablespoons each day. It's possible to even reduce the use of prescription medicines by using the oil as a natural supplement.

Ease Symptoms of Diabetes and Ulcers

Research shows that one of the benefits of olive oil is its ability to naturally regulate blood sugar and insulin levels in the body. This helps individuals with type 2 diabetes control the symptoms of their disease. Because olive oil is well tolerated and mild, there are many healing properties of olive oil for both ulcers and gastritis. The oil can help the body produce bile and hormones which prevent ulcers and gallstones.

Skin Benefits 

One of the best benefits of olive oil is its ability to moisturize skin. This oil has been used for thousands of years to promote healthy skin. Olive oil contains an acid that prevents water from leaving the skin and can be applied directly or in a warm bath. Research also shows that it has a high level of antioxidants which can get rid of damage from free radicals. This prevents premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer as well.

Olive oil has been used for thousands of years to promote health and beauty. Mediterranean countries have known the many benefits of this oil for generations. The healing properties of it are also well documented. This natural oil can help control diabetes while reducing the risk of heart disease. It is known to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels with its high levels of good fat. Using it as a natural supplement is an excellent way to maintain a healthy heart, skin and body.

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For Arthritis, hip pain, back pain, neck pain and other joint pain apply Elmore Oil to the painful area twice a day by gently massaging a small amount of oil into the area, until fully absorbed. Use every day for up to 14 days for maximum anti-inflammatory benefit, then just use as required. To learn more about how Elmore Oil can help you visit the Elmore Oil Blog.

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Olive Oil In Diet Better Than Whole Grain Bread

For those who want to live a healthy lifestyle, new research has shown that the daily use of Olive Oil in your meal is especially beneficial. In fact the use of Olive Oil seems to be even more beneficial then eating an extra slice of whole wheat bread. This is the outcome of research by members of the John Hopkins University on a comparison between three “health diets”.

An Olive Oil rich diet lowers the blood pressure and the Cholesterol level much more then a carbohydrate rich diet. Compared to a protein rich food an olive oil rich diet is easier to digest.

Scientists from the John Hopkins University have researched the DASH-diet. (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension). This diet has been developed a few years ago to aid people with high blood pressure problems. The researchers have compared DASH to two alternative diets and have published their conclusion in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

The DASH diet contains a lot of carbohydrates. You eat muesli for breakfast, whole grain bread for lunch and pasta for dinner. This is combined with fish, chicken and nuts and olive oil.

The other two diets tested are a protein rich and a carbohydrate rich variation of the DASH diet, but with no olive oil.

All three diets did lower blood pressure and cholesterol significantly but the diet that contained the olive oil stood out as the most effective. It lowered blood pressure and cholesterol just a bit more. And these factors are an important determinant of the long-term onset of cardiovascular disease.

All participants in the research reported that it was fairly easy to comply with each of these diets. But the participants in the protein rich variety complained more often about digestive problems and as a result of that they tended to be less physically active then the control group.

So this is an outcome that supports the Mediterranean Diets with their high Fish (Omega 3 fatty acids) and Olive Oil content even more.

Hans is author at http://www.steaks-guide.com/ Visit us for more health related recipes and articles

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Olives – A Superb Nutrition to Mankind

Olives are one of the oldest foods known to man, dating back some thousands of years in the Mediterranean region. The olive tree was valued as a symbol of peace and happiness and is well-known as a blessed tree. While olives were used as food, olives leaves are widely used for medicinal values and, olive oil are treated as perfect oil for cooking purposes.

Olives are concentrated in monounsaturated fats and a good source of vitamin E. Because monounsaturated fats are less easily damaged than polyunsaturated fats, it’s good to have some in our cells’ outer membranes and other cell structures that contain fats, such as the membranes that surround the cell’s DNA and each of its energy-producing mitochondria. The stability of monounsaturated fats translates into a protective effect on the cell that, especially when combined with the antioxidant protection offered by vitamin E, can lower the risk of damage and inflammation. (In addition to vitamin E, olives contain a variety of beneficial active phytonutrient compounds including polyphenols and flavonoids, which also appear to have significant anti-inflammatory properties.)

It’s true that olives do have some fat, but it’s the incredibly healthy monounsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fats have been found to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.

Current research shows there are around 100 naturally occurring compounds in fresh olive leaves. These all work together in ‘natural synergy’ to provide an effective year-round defense system for the olive tree. These compounds include a unique group of powerful polyphenolic antioxidants which are potent scavengers of free-radicals. In simple terms, they defend their cells against attack and damage.

The antioxidants in olive leaf scavenge free-radicals eliminating them before cell damage is done. Olive Leaf does not cure diseases, it is however a cold blooded killer of most pathogens. Once the pathogens have been stunned or killed off, the immune system can rebuild it and cure the disease or get rid of the symptoms. One compound in olive leaf is oleuropein which converts to elenolic acid in the body. The oleuropein and its related sub compounds target viruses and bad bacteria while relaxing blood vessels.

Nutritional Value of Olives

Given below is the amount of nutrients present in three olives, combined together:
Fat – 2.5                        Cholesterol – 0m
Sodium – 110mg             Carbohydrate – 1g
Calories – 25                  Protein: 0g
Iron                               Vitamin E
Dietary Fiber                  Copper
Fatty Acids                    Amino Acids

Due to fat content olives are highly energetic especially when ripe. They should be used preferably in the winter. Moreover, Olives are easy to digest if well chewed and, black olives are better than green olives.

The health benefits of Olives, Olive leaves and Olive Oil are listed as follows:

General consumption of Olives, due to their high anti-oxidant properties, help to combat against diseases such as cancer (particularly breast cancer and colon cancer).

The nutrients in olives help to prevent heart disease. Olives Leaves help combat against strokes, heart-disease, High blood pressure, diabetes. The olive leaves tea helps prevent and defends against High blood pressure.

The Vitamin E in Olives may even help to reduce the frequency and/or the intensity of hot flashes in women going through menopause.

The anti-inflammatory actions of monounsaturated fats and, the Vitamin E contained in Olives is the body’s primary fat-soluble antioxidant. Anti-oxidants help to strengthen the body’s immune system; reducing the severity of asthma, cancer, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, premature ageing, as well as delaying the effects of ageing.

Olives are also very light foods (i.e. it contains low calories), but at the same time very filling; being able to quickly satisfy hunger and, lead to fewer total calories ingested at mealtime.

The chronic ulcers and boils, which show difficult healing condition, are healed up with the use of olive oil generally. The local application of olive oil or the water extracted from the crushed olive oil leaves is effective on boils, rashes and itching.

The Olive oil can also be used on hands, hair and as a base for massage oil. When used as a balm it fortifies the hair and it keeps the hair shiny and prevents dandruff.
http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=6980292559542264849
Olive Oil when used as a balm fortifies and moisturizes the skin, combating dry skin and softening it. It also combats against acne.
 
Massaged onto the body, Olive oil fortify the limbs, combat against inflammation, and sooth away aches and pains from tired muscles and so on.
 
Olives aids in digestion and strengthens the bowels, as well as the stomach.

Healthy Nutrition and Healthy Diets – Tips and Guidelines to Healthy Eating http://www.tips2goodhealth.blogspot.com

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Olive Oil and Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are unfortunately a fact of life for many people. Fortunately, this annoying health problem can often be solved outside of a doctor’s office. Kidney stones are often gotten rid of without any surgical medical procedures. This can be done with one of several home remedies for this problem. Most of these home remedies should be used with other home remedies to be thorough in dissolving these pesky body build ups.


Olive oil and kidney stones are connected through a couple of these home remedies. Olive oil is mostly used along with lemon juice to make an effective recipe for ridding oneself of these sorts of internal build ups and deposits. Olive oil is not usually effective by itself, but appears to be very effective when used with lemon juice and a good dose of hot water.

This remedy is not only for olive oil and kidney stones, but also olive oil and gallstones. So, if you are ailed by either of these health problems, this home remedy may just work for you. It is recommended that all eating be stopped for forty eight to seventy two hours. It is suggested that during this time you intake nothing but water. Cranberry juice is also acceptable in this period of only fluid intake as cranberries are a natural diuretic. It is also suggested that the water that is ingested during this time be distilled.

However, if your tap water is not considered to be hard water, it should be alright. The hard water from a tap is too full of minerals and can further irritate your condition rather than help it. After you spend two to three days purging your system of nothing but water, it is wise to spend an extra day in taking juices like cranberry juice if you have not already done that. Pear juice and beet juice are also great for this sort of condition.

After these few grueling days of nothing but liquids, you may now integrate solid foods. Solid foods like shredded raw beets are good to start with. When beginning to eat these solid foods, you will now start to incorporate the olive oil into the mix of things along with lemon juice. Adding uncooked applesauce to this recipe is also a wise idea. Olive oil is quite necessary to this diet, as it stimulates the production and proper elimination of the fat digesting enzyme which is known as lipase.

If at all possible, use only high quality olive oil to keep the formation of these troublesome stones at bay. Be sure to avoid meats, greasy foods, deep fried items, or any other processed fats or oils. This includes margarine and butter, so be careful not to use these things too. Eating small meals is also a good idea. You do not want over work your healing insides at this time. Be as easy on yourself as possible. Some people will not be able to take it as easy as they should during this healing process, but it is important to try and be as easy possible with yourself at this time.

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What Makes Olive Oil Virgin, Extra-virgin, Organic Or Not?

The merits of extra virgin olive oil have been talked about everywhere, from Oprah to the Sunday paper. But when you go to the store to buy it, the range of products and prices is astounding. How do you choose?
Let me make it easy for you. Here is the explanation of what makes olive oil extra virgin or not.
First we have to consider the quality of the olive itself. If the olive is picked while still green, the oil will be bitter. Using an olive that is too ripe will result in a rancid tasting oil. Great care is used in choosing olives that are ready to become oil. The words “hand picked olives” on the label indicate that great care was used.

Organic means that the olives are certified to have been grown without the use of pesticides, an important point.

Extra-virgin olive oil is produced by the old-fashioned way of slowly grinding the olives into a paste, allowing the oil to form naturally, and not letting any heat build up in the process. Too much heat will produce an oxidized oil that loses its health giving vitality. Extra-virgin olive oil must be cold processed and cannot be adulterated with any refined oils. I agree that this olive oil has a superior taste.

Virgin olive oil is slightly more acid with a less pronounced taste. Some literature says that it is the second pressing of those olives. There may be a little bit of heat building up as the process continues.
The second way to produce olive oil is by using a centrifuge process which is considered to produce an olive oil of lesser quality because it can result in a build up of heat.

Refined olive oil has been chemically treated to neutralize those “strong” tastes. This can result in a taste-less oily product that most olive oil lovers avoid.

Labels that read “100% Pure olive oil” or “Made from refined olive oils” or “Light olive oil” indicate that this product was made from inferior oils or chemically processed.

The best olive oil labels should include these phrases like “from hand-picked olives” or “first cold pressed” or “organic” to insure the most nutritious and delicious oil.

One of my favorite things is to taste test the olive oils at Whole Foods Market. A few drops can be dripped onto small pieces of bread for a quick taste test. The best olive oil should please your taste buds. If it burns your throat, that oil is not for you. It might be rancid or there could be other personal concerns. I avoid clear bottles or plastic bottles and choose oil in dark green or brown glass bottles to insure freshness.

If you love the taste of it, do not choke when you see the price. Really great nutritious olive oil should taste absolutely delicious! You just need a little bit daily on your toast or salad to reap the nutritional rewards.

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