Olive oil has been receiving a lot of attention in recent years.
Its reputation as a health food has only grown stronger, but the truth is, olive oil has been a staple in the human diet for over 600 years.
What we now know about olive oil’s health benefits is not new.
In fact, modern science has simply confirmed what people have known for centuries.
Research shows that olive oil can help lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of cancer, and even decrease the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
While many of these benefits are often attributed to the oil’s polyphenol content, recent studies have uncovered another compound in olive oil that plays an even more crucial role.
The main bioactive compound in olive oil is oleic acid.
This compound makes up about 70 to 80 percent of the oil and is the most common monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) found in the human diet.
But oleic acid is not just something we get from food.
Our bodies produce it as well, making it a unique and essential part of our health.
Despite its importance, oleic acid hasn’t received the recognition it deserves until recently.
A study published in Nutrients has highlighted several remarkable health benefits of oleic acid.
When it comes to brain health, oleic acid plays a significant role.
It’s a major component of the outer layer of brain cells, known as the phospholipid bilayer.
Research has shown that the amount of oleic acid in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease and major depressive disorders is much lower than in healthy individuals.
Restoring these levels could potentially help lower the risk of these conditions.
Oleic acid also serves as an energy source for the body, similar to other free fatty acids.
But its benefits don’t stop there.
Oleic acid is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system.
It plays an essential role in how the body produces and uses enzymes that fight free radicals, the harmful molecules that damage cells.
This makes oleic acid an important part of the body’s natural defense system.
When it comes to heart health, oleic acid helps keep cholesterol in check by preventing the proteins that carry cholesterol from being absorbed.
This reduces the chances of cholesterol accumulating in the arteries, which can help prevent heart blockages and atherosclerosis.
Oleic acid also has cancer-fighting potential.
It helps maintain a healthy immune system, which can play a key role in reducing cancer risk.
In addition to these benefits, oleic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, further supporting its importance in maintaining overall health.
If you’re not already incorporating olive oil into your diet, now is the time to start.
Both olive and avocado oils are the healthiest liquid oils you can use, while many other oils, such as canola oil, can contribute to inflammation.
When choosing olive oil, be sure to pick a high-quality option.
Many store-bought olive oils are mixed with other oils, like canola, which diminishes the health benefits.
So take your time selecting a good-quality olive oil and start reaping the health benefits of oleic acid.
For more information on the health benefits of olive oil and oleic acid, check out these resources: Olive Oil and Its Benefits and Oleic Acid and Heart Health.