There has always been controversy about the health benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, as well as its advantages over other types of oil. In this post we are going to solve your doubts.
Cooking with oil or without oil or what type of oil to use are frequent questions in our day to day. The health benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil make it a staple in our Mediterranean diet.
Extra Virgin Olive Oils or EVOOs are made from pure olive juice. The olive is ground and beaten and after several centrifugation, decantation and filtering processes, we already obtain the EVOO.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is very rich in polyphenols, those antioxidant components present in many vegetables. Hydroxytyrosol and derivatives are some of these polyphenols that help protect blood lipids against oxidative stress.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is also rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, the main one being oleic acid, which contributes to the normal maintenance of blood cholesterol.
Recent studies verify the antitumor effects on human breast cancer cells of pinoresinol, an element present in EVOO. In addition, the consumption of Extra Virgin Olive Oil is related to low levels of breast cancer. This element acts preventing DNA damage and has an antioxidant effect on normal cells. On tumor cells it has a cytotoxic, antiproliferative and prooxidant effect (it damages or even eliminates it).
In addition to all these EVOO benefits, some of its organoleptic properties have healthy benefits.
Many times we notice that EVOOs have a certain itch. This effect is the responsibility of a compound called oleocanthal, with proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The bitterness Also present naturally in many olive oils, it originates from a compound called Oleuropein. This compound has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Thanks to this, EVOO acts as protection against cardiovascular diseases and arterial hypertension.
In addition to all the benefits that EVOO has, it is one of the main ingredients of the Mediterranean Diet. Due to its versatility, composition and flavor, they make it the star of national gastronomy.
At Bodegas Altanza we make an organic 100% Arbequina EVOO, from our olive trees at Finca Valvarés. It is aromatic and fine, so it is recommended to eat it raw or use it as a dressing for vegetables and salads.
