Heart, metabolism & fitness
Olive oil stands out for its proven benefits for heart health, metabolism, and fitness. Abundant in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil supports cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease. In several studies, those who ate more than half a tablespoon of olive oil each day had a 15% lower risk of having any kind of cardiovascular disease and a 21% lower risk of coronary heart disease. It has also been found to reduce blood pressure, and enable patients on drugs for hypertension to reduce their dose. Its monounsaturated fats help improve cholesterol levels, particularly by raising HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol, promoting better overall heart function. Furthermore, olive oil consumption has been associated with improved metabolic health, including better insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, which are crucial for managing conditions like diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts can also benefit from olive oil's potential to enhance exercise performance and recovery, and cardiorespiratory coordination. Its anti-inflammatory properties aid in reducing exercise-induced muscle damage - one study showed that an intake of 25 mL of extra-virgin olive oil supplement resulted in a 46% decrease in the exercise inflammatory response - while its high antioxidant content helps combat oxidative stress associated with intense physical activity.
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