Olive oil is known to be one of the healthiest fats you can include in your diet. Its richness in monounsaturated fats, such as oleic acid, allows it not only to offer flavour, but also to improve your heart health.
Consuming olive oil on a regular basis helps to reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol and maintain or even increase HDL ("good") cholesterol. This means that olive oil has a protective effect on the arteries, preventing fatty deposits from building up and obstructing blood flow.
In addition, its ability to reduce inflammation plays an important role. Chronic inflammation is one of the factors contributing to the formation of plaque in the arteries, which increases the risk of heart attack. By reducing this inflammation, olive oil helps to keep arteries clean and functional.
Olive oil consumption has also been associated with lower blood pressure. People who incorporate olive oil into their diet tend to show better regulation of their blood pressure, which in turn reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Taken together, all these effects make olive oil a crucial ally for cardiovascular health, helping to prevent heart attacks and other heart-related problems. By including it in your diet, you are not only enjoying a delicious ingredient, but also a powerful tool to protect your health.