Why is extra virgin olive oil good for us?

It has a high ratio of Monounsaturated fat in the form of oleic acid. This is the ‘good' fat. Research has shown that monounsaturated fat helps protect the body from high cholesterol levels and reduces the build up of deposits on the arteries. Monounsaturated fat is the least prone to turning rancid, rancid oil of any kind has negative effects on the body and should be avoided. Olive Oil also contains antioxidants including vitamin E. These have been documented to slow down the natural aging process. Olive oil like many other fresh foods has been linked to reducing the risk of cancer. Olive oil makes food more appetising because it releases the flavours from the foods it is served with.

Olive oil also contains Omega 6 and some Omega 3. These are two essential polyunsaturated fatty acids that the body cannot produce its self. Daily requirement for these fatty acids is supplied by 2-3 tablespoons olive oil per day. ‘These essential fatty acids help the body in a number of ways including, helping mental function, vision, blood pressure& immunity.