Today, I think we all know that a thoughtful diet is essential to good health and well-being… healthy eating doesn’t have to be a challenge.
We’ve known that cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil contains the highest amount of monounsaturated fat of any edible oil. Premium oils are full of antioxidants and have shown to have cardio-protective and anti-cancer properties. There is another reason to choose this fruits delicious oil: the oil contains a natural compound with anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen.
The compound, oleocanthal, is evidenced by the taste of olive oil. Gary Beauchamp, PhD, noticed a strong similarity between the peppery bite at the back of the throat when eating olive oils. His lab confirmed a chemical similarity, showing that oleocanthal inhibits the activity of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes involved with inflammation and pain in the body.
Four tablespoons of the oil contains 10 percent of the pain-relieving power of an adult dose of ibuprofen. Regular consumption of olive oil might provide long-term benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain cancers and possibly protecting against Alzheimer’s disease.
Note: Not all olive oils have oleocanthal. If the oil stings in the throat or if a cough is triggered when you swallow, the oil contains this healthy compound. Organic extra virgin olive oil is the best sources.
“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”
~I Thessalonians
Enjoy your Olive Oils…
