Top 10 Extra Virgin Olive Oil Health Benefits

Are you looking to improve your health and add some serious flavor to your meals? Look no further than extra virgin olive oil.

This stuff is packed with antioxidants and is a key component of a healthy diet. But that's not all – it's also deliciously rich and full-bodied, and will add some serious flavor to your dishes.

So what are you waiting for? Make extra virgin olive oil a part of your daily meals and enjoy all the health benefits it has to offer. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should make it a part of your diet:

1. Heart health: Olive oil consumption is associated with a a reduction in blood pressure and an improvement in arterial stiffness in people with high blood pressure, a reduction in the formation of blood clots and an improvement in markers of inflammation in people with high blood pressure, AND a drop in LDL (bad) cholesterol, and an increase in HDL (good) cholesterol and a lower risk of heart disease.  

2. Cancer prevention: Some studies have suggested that the antioxidants in extra virgin olive oil may help protect against certain types of cancer, such as breast and colon cancer. 

3. Weight management: research has shown that olive oil consumption was associated with a reduction in body weight and waist size. This might be because food tastes more satisfying when prepared with delicious olive oil!

4. Diabetes management: Extra virgin olive oil may help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control in people with diabetes.
   
    

5. Brain health: Some research suggests that the monounsaturated fats in extra virgin olive oil may protect against cognitive decline and improve memory and cognitive function. 

6. Inflammation reduction: Extra virgin olive oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds which may be helpful for conditions such as arthritis and asthma. 

7. Digestive health: Extra virgin olive oil may help improve digestion and reduce the risk of constipation. Try a shot of olive oil a day mixed with home-made yogurt - delicious and feels great!

8. Skin health: The antioxidants in extra virgin olive oil may help improve skin health by protecting against sun damage and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.  Research has shown that olive oil consumption is associated with improved skin elasticity and hydration in postmenopausal women. If you have dry skin you can also use olive oil after a bedtime shower as a moisturizer.

9. Bone health: Extra virgin olive oil may help improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

10. Stress reduction: Some research suggests that the monounsaturated fats in extra virgin olive oil may help reduce stress and improve mood.