Olive Oil is Protective Against Heart Disease
Heart disease is the most common cause of death in the world.
Observational studies conducted a few decades ago showed that heart disease was rare around the Mediterranean Sea.
This led to extensive research on the Mediterranean diet, which has now been shown to significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.
Extra virgin olive oil is one of the key features of this diet, and protects against heart disease via numerous mechanisms.
It lowers inflammation, protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation, improves the function of the lining of the blood vessels, and may help prevent unwanted blood clotting.
Interestingly, it has also been shown to lower blood pressure, which is one of the strongest risk factors for heart disease and premature death. In one study, olive oil reduced the need for blood pressure meds by 48%.
The truth is that dozens, if not hundreds, of studies have shown that extra virgin olive oil has powerful benefits for the heart.
If you have heart disease, a family history of heart disease, or any other major risk factor, then you might want to consider including plenty of extra virgin olive oil in your diet.
Bottom Line: Olive oil has numerous benefits for heart health. It lowers blood pressure, protects LDL particles from oxidation, and has beneficial effects on many other risk factors.
