Extra virgin olive oil, arguably the healthiest oil on the planet, offers a variety of benefits to those who consume it on a regular basis. The Mediterranean diet has long been regarded as one of the world's most nutritious diets. Because of its numerous health benefits, extra virgin olive oil is an essential component of the Mediterranean diet. This extraordinary oil contains several essential components that make it so nourishing—and delicious! It is made from the oil extracted from the olive tree fruit.
What Makes Extra Virgin Olive Oil So Wonderful?Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is packed full of antioxidants. Primarily due to the phenol alcohols and acids, as well as the secoiridoids, lignans, and flavones, all of which work together to create a myriad of health properties. What sets EVOO oil apart from other types of oils is that during the production process, it can retain the antioxidants and bioactive compounds from the olive, unlike typical tabletop olive oil. During production, EVOO is pressed from ripe, delicious olives and is not processed with heat or chemical solvents. This particular process allows for the final product to have its nutritional benefits intact.
About 75% of all EVOOs are comprised of monounsaturated fatty acids. For good health, it is recommended that the fat that you include in your diet is only monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats. These fats provide the body with nutrients and antioxidants. EVOO is, without a doubt, the healthiest cooking oil available.
What Is Polyphenol?
EVOO is a polyphenol powerhouse. Polyphenol is a natural bioactive compound that is full of antioxidant properties. The two most plentiful types of polyphenol in EVOO are hydroxytyrosol and oleocanthal. What allows for the polyphenol to be present in this oil is its preservation during the production process. Most oils are ultra-processed, have a variety of different chemicals and solvents, and are made with extreme heat. EVOO is created without these steps, which allow the polyphenol to remain in the oil.
In addition to the high levels of antioxidants in EVOO, the high levels of polyphenols present allow for two additional benefits. To begin with, polyphenols help to prevent fatty acid oxidation. As a result, it has a longer shelf life than other oils while remaining highly antioxidant..
The second way the polyphenol in EVOO is beneficial is that it helps to create a moderately high smoke point between 350 and 410 degrees Fahrenheit. EVOO is a very stable cooking oil and resists degradation much better than other oils by comparison. You can use EVOO in a variety of ways, including frying, sautéing, and baking. The polyphenol will minimize the oxidative stress caused by heat in other types of oils, which can result in compounds containing harmful free radicals. Another exciting aspect of EVOO is that recent studies show that cooking certain vegetables in EVOO, such as tomatoes, eggplants, and pumpkin, actually increases the antioxidant content of the vegetables!
What to Look for When Buying EVOO to Get the Most Out of It.
You already know that EVOO is a fantastic ingredient to use in your cooking. However, it is critical to purchase the correct type of EVOO. With so many fraudulent oils on the market, you'll want to carefully read labels to ensure your oil hasn't been diluted with other refined oils.
High-quality EVOO is an undoubtedly healthy addition to your kitchen. Extra virgin olive oil is a product that both professional chefs and home cooks can enjoy because of its potent antioxidants, which offer a variety of health benefits, versatile cooking abilities, and long shelf life.