Olive Oil: Nature's Anti-Inflammatory, a Pain Pill Alternative
The Mediterranean diet, renowned for its heart health benefits, is centered around olive oil. Doctors now recommend it as a natural anti-inflammatory, even suggesting it as an alternative to pain pills.
Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) offers numerous health benefits, acting as a natural anti-inflammatory. It works on the same pathways as ibuprofen but without the side effects. This has been known since ancient times, with olive oil used medicinally for over 5,000 years.
When shopping for olive oil, look for 100% extra-virgin, cold-pressed, early harvest, in a dark glass bottle, with a recent harvest date, and from trusted producers. The burning sensation felt at the back of the throat when tasting robust olive oil is due to oleocanthal, a compound that blocks inflammatory enzymes COX-1 and COX-2.
Regular use of olive oil can lower blood pressure, improve blood vessel flexibility, reduce heart attack and stroke risk, balance blood sugar, and support brain and joint health. Trusted producers include Rincon de la Subbetica, Aceites Oro Bailen Galgon 99 S.L., and Knolive Oils S.L. from Andalusia, Spain, and Pitarokilis Bio Olive Oil from Crete, Greece.
The Mediterranean diet's heart-protective benefits are largely due to olive oil. By choosing high-quality, fresh EVOO and incorporating it into our diets, we can harness its natural anti-inflammatory properties and support overall health.
