The variety of olive oils is large. But as we’ve mentioned before, there is a big difference in quality. Extra virgin olive oil, like Gkazas, consists of 100 percent natural ingredients and is therefore organic. And where do you find most of the vitamins and fats that our bodies need? That’s right, in plant-based products. So, our olive oil contains plenty of healthy vitamins and fats! Want to receive fun facts like these each month? Subscribe to our newsletter!
Extra virgin olive oil contains many antioxidants
The foundation of everything is that extra virgin olive oil is rich in antioxidants. According to The Nutrition Centre, this is their definition:
Antioxidants are a collective term for substances such as vitamins E and C, trace elements like selenium, and bioactive compounds, such as those found in fruits and vegetables.
Antioxidants neutralise free radicals. These are aggressive substances that, in the worst case, can damage cells and tissues. Antioxidants can help prevent this damage and possibly reduce the risk of diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disease in the long term. This also applies to heating olive oil.
We definitely agree with that. Our olive oil contains vitamin E and K, along with beneficial fatty acids. Take a look at the nutritional values per 100 grams of olive oil, which shows just how healthy olive oil is:
Saturated fat: 13.8%. Monounsaturated fat: 73% (mainly oleic acid, 18 carbon atoms long). Omega 6: 9.7%. Omega 3: 0.76%. Vitamin E: 72% of the RDI. Vitamin K: 75% of the RDI.
Fighting disease
Antioxidants are champions when it comes to fighting disease. And olive oil outshines many other natural products in this regard. Some of the most important antioxidants are the anti-inflammatory oleocanthal and oleuropein— a substance that protects LDL cholesterol against oxidation.
There is also research showing that olive oil plays a role in fighting heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. One proposed mechanism behind these health benefits is its anti-inflammatory effect. The main anti-inflammatory power seems to come from antioxidants in olive oil, especially oleocanthal, which appears to work in a similar way to ibuprofen—a well-known anti-inflammatory medication.
Protection against cardiovascular disease
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Interestingly, studies show that the percentage is lower in Mediterranean countries. That gives you something to think about. It might not be causation, but there’s likely some correlation between olive oil consumption and a longer lifespan. Research on the Mediterranean diet suggests that it can help prevent heart disease. It may also reduce blood clotting and help keep your blood vessels healthy.
We’re not claiming that extra virgin olive oil should become a daily fixture in your diet or that it will cure any disease. But it is interesting to see that it can, to some extent, contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Every bit helps, we believe!
