Olive Oil Great Tasting And Good For You Too! By Lisa Fraley
The Holy Scriptures make reference to olive oil throughout and healthwise it packs a powerful punch!Did you know that replacing two tablespoons of saturated fats, such as butter and margarine, with olive oil everyday could actually make your heart healthier? Dozens of studies have been done on olive oil which suggest many more health benefits. In this article we will look at a few of them.
Olive oil is 77% monounsaturated fat. Research studies show it may lower heart disease risk by lowering the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL-low density lipoprotein) in the blood and leaving the good cholesterol (HDL-high density lipoprotein) intact. It slashes the risk of heart disease because it breaks down the plaque in clogged arteries and reduces the risk of hardened arteries. Olive oil also helps fight other illness such as diabetes, arthritis, breast cancer, constipation, the effects of aging and more according to research studies. How? Olive oil contains antioxidants such as vitamin E that protect cells from damage.
Here are some olive oil health tips:
The types of olive oil include: extra virgin, pure, light or mild, and olive pomace oil.
Extra virgin - made from cold pressing select olives without any further refining. Best you can buy and is produced in limited quantities so it costs more.
Pure olive oil - this is a blend of refined olive oil and extra virgin or virgin olive oil.
Light or mild olive oil - this is a refined oil with just enough extra virgin oil added to give it a light flavor and color. It is NOT lighter in calories. It has the same caloric and fat content as the other oils.
Olive pomace oil - extracted from the pomace which is the remaining portion of the olive oil after pressing. The resulting oil refined and blended with virgin olive oil to add flavor.
Olive oil will help you tantalize your taste buds while at the same time providing healthy nourishment.
Storing Olive Oil
You can store olive oil in an airtight container, away from light, in a cool place like your cupboard. Some refrigerate it (I don’t personally), if you do it will become cloudy and eventually it will solidify. To use once this happens, let it come to room temperature and it will clear up/liquify again. Neither quality nor flavor will be affected. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.If stored properly, olive oil will keep its flavor for up to two years making it a great addition to your stockpile!!
If you’re adding another flavor to olive oil: Blanch fresh herbs in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and pat dry with a paper towel. Add herbs to oil and let stand overnight at room temperature. Refrigerate any oil not immediately used.
Try serving olive oil in a cruet or a decanter. Serve flavored oil in a smaller container to prevent waste (use it up in one day).
Clear glass containers show off olive oil’s great color.
These are just a small portion of the health benefits and uses for olive oil, there are many more. Why not research them for yourself and make olive oil a healthy addition to your diet and life.
**The information provided in this article is not intended as a substitute for medical intervention and/or advice. This article serves as informative only. If you have medical issues or concerns I encourage you to seek the advice of your health practitioner.
Copyright © Lisa Fraley
Lisa Fraley owns and operates Home Works Natural Skin And Body Care.
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