Health Benefits of Olives

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Olives are a great addition to any kitchen. Olives have been recognized for its health promoting properties for thousands of years.

Olives are fruits of the tree known as Olea europaea. Olives are a rich source of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that has been shown to lower cholesterol levels.

Some olives are picked green and unripe, while others are allowed to fully ripen on the tree to a black colour. Both olives and olive oil have been consumed for thousands of years.
 

Anti-Oxidants and Flavonoids

Olives are an excellent source of phytonutrients with antioxidant activity. Fat soluble anti-oxidants, such as vitamin E, play a role in decreasing cardiovascular damage. These beneficial compounds neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals directly damage blood vessels and can cause cholesterol to build up in artery walls; therefore, anti-oxidants can be helpful in preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis, stroke, heart disease and arthritis.
 

Reduce Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Antioxidants also play a role in decreasing cardiovascular damage. Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals in the body. Free radicals directly damage blood vessels and can cause cholesterol to build up in artery walls; therefore, vitamin E can be helpful in preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis and heart disease.
 

Beneficial Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Olives provide powerful anti-oxidant effects due to the availability of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E in olives. The consumption of olives and olive oil may help protect against the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
 

Traditional uses of Olives

Olive consumption has traditionally been prescribed to reduce the instances of hot flashes in menopausal women. Olives have also been given to help cool the body, detoxify organs and treat respiratory ailments.

One Response to “Health Benefits of Olives”

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