Does Olive Oil Promote Heart Disease? Here’s An Honest Assessment
In recent years, people in the USA have become more health-conscious. This is a very positive change, given how rampant lifestyle disorders like heart disease, obesity, stroke, and type 2 diabetes have become.
Sadly, the USA is the unhealthiest industrialized nation in the world, and our diets have a major role to play in eroding our health.
As heart disease is the leading cause of death in the Western world, much research has been conducted on foods that heal your heart and foods that harm it, including olive oil.
As a layperson, you have probably come across numerous articles touting the health benefits of olive oil and have given serious thought to including more of it in your diet if you haven’t already been doing so.
However, you might have also encountered information stating that olive oil is bad for you as it promotes heart disease. Presented with contrary information from different sources, you might be confused.
Let’s clear up your confusion with an honest assessment.
Why Is Olive Oil Considered Good For Your Heart?
While dietary fats are a topic of debate, the verdict is almost unanimous when it comes to olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, which is considered the best quality oil available.
Rich in beneficial fatty acids, it is also loaded with powerful antioxidants that may reduce your risk of chronic diseases and help you fight inflammation.
Great Source Of Antioxidants And Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is extracted via a machine or hand pressing and does not use any heat or chemicals. It is, therefore, of the highest quality and retains all the valuable nutrients and antioxidants from the olives.
As per research, the high antioxidant content of olive oil may lower the risks of heart disease as well as breast cancer and cancers of the digestive system.
Supports The Cardiovascular System
Most people get the impression that, since olive oil is liquid fat, it’s bound to be detrimental for your heart health.
On the contrary, olive oil is primarily made up of monounsaturated fat that can, in fact, help reduce one’s risk for heart disease. Olive oil protects against inflammation and reduces oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol.
May Protect Against Stroke
The second-largest killer after heart disease, stroke is a major public health threat. High cholesterol and high blood pressure are some factors that increase the risk of heart disease also are …
