Phenols in olive oil have antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to the many benefits of 1 tablespoon of olive oil per day.
The effects of olive oil on lowering cholesterol are even greater if you choose extra virgin olive oil, which means that the oil is less processed and contains more heart-healthy antioxidants.
Tangerine, orange juice and orange drinks are rich in plant sterols which can help lower LDL cholesterol by more than 10 percent.
A traditional Mediterranean diet with added olive oil may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease, at least in part, because it helps maintain healthy blood circulation and clear debris from the arteries, a Spanish study suggests.
Extra virgin olive oil also contains a good amount of vitamins E and K in each serving. Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that doubles as an antioxidant, while vitamin K plays a key role in bone health, blood clotting, heart health and more.
In addition to the above benefits, drinking olive oil can have the following effects:
- Helps stabilize blood sugar,
- Supports bone health,
- Reduce inflammation.
Olive oil is rich in unsaturated fats and has several health benefits, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.