Olive oil is widely used in the Mediterranean diet and today, it has become popular all over the world. Although people use olive oil for cooking, cosmetic products, medicine and soaps, many are unaware of how beneficial olive oil actually is. There are many benefits of olive oil for health that might surprise you. If your pantry has run out of olive oil, it might be time for you to head over to the store to get some today!
Supporting Bone Health
As we grow older, our bone structure changes, which may lead to the acceleration of bone tissue loss. Hence, we should be proactive about strengthening our bones as we age. Studies have shown increases in bone framework proteins and other positive effects with the consumption of olive oil. In other words, olive oil can help prevent bone loss in conditions such as age-related osteoporosis, and stimulate bone-framing osteoblastic cells. Olive oil is also considered a natural remedy that is safe for health, unlike artificial remedies.
Caring for Your Eyes
Ever heard of massaging olive oil around your eyes? If you haven’t, you should try it. It is an uncommon but effective way of caring for your eyes. Olive oil helps to stimulate blood circulation, reduce tiredness and make you feel more refreshed. Today, our hectic work life and staring at screens all day can make us exhausted and hurt our eyes. So why not give your eyes a massage since they have worked tirelessly all day? Massaging olive oil into your eyes is a simple routine that you can incorporate into your mornings or nights!
Strengthening Hair
Want shiny, soft and resilient hair without paying an arm and a leg for it at the salon? You can achieve the same results by using olive oil as a conditioner. Olive oil’s primary chemical elements are emollients that contain softening qualities. It can strengthen hair by penetrating the hair shaft and preserving moisture. However, results may vary with hair type so it would be best to test whether using olive oil on your hair is ideal before adding it to your hair care routine.
Reducing the Risk of Depression
Olive oil helps to boost one’s mental well-being and brain health because it contains vitamin E, which prevents mental decline and is an effective antioxidant that combats radical damage in the brain. In 2013, a study found that extra virgin olive oil can protect the nervous system and is useful for treating anxiety and depression. Statistics also show that those who eat the Mediterranean diet rarely suffer from depression.
Preventing Chronic Inflammation
How can olive oil help older adults with chronic conditions? It has been proven that people who consume the Mediterranean diet, where olive oil is the main source of fat, appear to have a lower risk of developing chronic conditions. Chronic inflammation is the leading driver of many diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Since olive oil has high amounts of antioxidants, it can help to reduce inflammation. It works just like anti-inflammatory drugs and protects the body from cardiovascular diseases.
Incorporating Olive Oil into Your Lifestyle
At the end of the day, olive oil is extremely beneficial for health, both diet-wise and when used as it is. Now that you are aware of how olive oil can be used both in and out of the kitchen, are you ready to incorporate this superfood into your lifestyle?
