Reduce inflammation, protect cardiovascular and brain
Pure olive oil contains oleocanthal, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen. Oleic acid in olive oil is associated with lower C-reactive protein levels, an inflammatory marker in the blood. Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and Alzheimer's disease.
Professor Frank Hu - a nutritionist and epidemiologist at the T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, said that a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. A study recorded that people who consume more than half a tablespoon of olive oil per day reduced their risk of heart disease by about 14%.
Supplementing 1.5 - 2.2 tablespoons of olive oil per day in some studies also shows relevance to reducing the risk of stroke and myocardial infarction, thanks to improved blood pressure and cholesterol.
Supports metabolism, intestines and weight control
A diet rich in olive oil can improve some components of metabolic syndrome such as blood pressure, triglycerides and blood sugar. Healthy fats in olive oil help regulate blood sugar, contributing to reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Some meta-analysis shows that higher olive oil consumption is associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer, breast cancer and gastrointestinal cancer. In addition, olive oil can help balance the gut microbiome and improve symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease. However, olive oil is energy-rich. Use should be at a reasonable level to avoid weight gain.
