Olive oil is a key component of many healthy diets, especially the Mediterranean diet. One of its most prominent benefits is its ability to lower blood cholesterol levels, a crucial factor in maintaining cardiovascular health.
Olive oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids, which are healthy fats that help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) in the blood. By lowering bad cholesterol, olive oil helps prevent the build-up of plaque in the arteries, which can block blood flow and increase the risk of heart disease.
In addition, olive oil can raise HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol). This type of cholesterol helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries, promoting a cleaner, healthier cardiovascular system. Having high levels of HDL cholesterol is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
Studies have shown that people who consume olive oil as part of their daily diet have a lower risk of dyslipidaemia (abnormal blood cholesterol levels), which translates into better overall health and less likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.
Incorporating olive oil into your meals not only improves taste, but is also a simple and effective way to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. If you are looking for a healthy alternative to other saturated fats, olive oil is an excellent choice.