Health Benefits

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Health Benefits

How Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Mediterranean Diet Can Combat Urologic Diseases And Other Infections

Mediterranean Diet For Better Urologic Health

Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil Combat Infection.

Summary

  • New Study Shows Impact Of The Mediterranean Diet On Prevention and Management of Urologic Diseases.
  • Recent evidence supports The Mediterranean Diet as offering a range of benefits to urologic health, including Inflammation Reduction, Urinary Tract Health, Prostate Health and Protection Against Kidney Stones.
  • The polyphenol content in quality extra virgin olive oils like Morocco Gold is very high due to quality of production and the Picholine Marocaine, the only type of olive to go into Morocco Gold.

Contents

  1. EVOO-Infused Mediterranean Diet Linked To Urologic Disease Prevention: New Study.
  2. The Mediterranean Diet, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Urologic Health.
  3. Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Benefits To Overall Health.
  4. Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is High In Polyphenols.

EVOO-Infused Mediterranean Diet Linked To Urologic Disease Prevention: New Study.

New evidence has emerged that links the power of extra virgin olive oil as part of a wider Mediterranean Diet with improved urology health.

A new study, reported in Physicians Weekly, shows adherence to a Mediterranean Diet (including extra virgin olive oil as its primary fat source) can help combat and manage Urologic diseases.

The findings further support evidence that the polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil can help combat a range of infections.

The Mediterranean Diet, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Urologic Health.

The Mediterranean diet is a mosaic of eating habits shared by people living around the Mediterranean Sea. It emphasizes intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and of course, extra virgin olive oil as the principal source of fat. Fish and seafood are preferred over red meat, and moderate consumption of wine is typical.

There is mounting research which explores some of the ways that extra virgin olive oil as part of a wider Mediterranean Diet could benefit urologic health. These include:

  1. Inflammation Reduction: Chronic inflammation is a contributing factor to many urologic conditions, such as interstitial cystitis. The anti-inflammatory nature of the Mediterranean diet, with emphasis on Extra Virgin Olive Oil, can help alleviate symptoms.
  2. Urinary Tract Health: The diet’s high intake of fibre and antioxidants (present in quality extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold) aids in maintaining a healthy urinary tract.
  3. Prostate Health: Research suggests that the Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of prostate cancer, likely due to its high content of antioxidants and low intake of red meat.
  4. Protection Against Kidney Stones: Extra Virgin Olive Oil consumption appears to decrease the levels of oxalate in urine, a substance that contributes to kidney stones.

In a recent comprehensive review, the researchers meticulously screened 955 papers from reputable databases, including PubMed and Embase, meticulously selecting 58 studies comprising randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, reviews, and meta-analyses for inclusion. 

Their analysis, encompassing 11 primary studies focusing on sexual dysfunction, 9 studies on urinary symptoms, 8 studies on stone disease, and 9 studies on urological cancers, revealed compelling evidence supporting the efficacy of a Mediterranean diet in mitigating these urological ailments.

The findings are summarised in Physicians Weekly as such:

Notably, the findings underscore the diet’s potential in preventing and ameliorating conditions such as erectile dysfunction, nephrolithiasis, lower urinary tract symptoms, and urinary incontinence. However, while the available evidence suggests promising therapeutic avenues, notable gaps persist, particularly in understanding the diet’s impact on urological cancers and other conditions such as premature ejaculation, loss of libido, female sexual dysfunction, and overactive bladder. 

Thus, their review not only highlights the tangible benefits of adhering to a Mediterranean diet in mitigating urological disorders but also underscores the imperative for further research endeavors to unravel its full therapeutic potential in this domain.

Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Benefits To Overall Health

Polyphenols have been shown to reduce morbidity and/or slow down the progression of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and cancer diseases. The mechanism of action of polyphenols strongly relates to their antioxidant activity. Polyphenols are known to decrease the level of reactive oxygen species in the human body. In addition, health-promoting properties of plant polyphenols comprise anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-mutagenic effects.

There is a body of research demonstrating their ability to modulate the human immune system by affecting the proliferation and activity of white blood cells, as well as the production of cytokines or other factors that participate in immunological defence.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is High In Polyphenols

The high polyphenol content of Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil is dependent on three factors. First is the variety of the olive, secondly the climate and terroire of the growing region and thirdly the actual time in the growing season that the crop is harvested.

Morocco Gold is pressed from the Picholine Marocaine, the only type of olive to go into Morocco Gold. Oil from this variety is renowned for it’s high polyphenol count, oxidative stability and longevity.

Our latset harvest has produced a low acidity level of 0.2% together with the highest level of polyphenols yet seen in our extra virgin olive oil.

3,4 DHPEA-EDA 85 mg/kg
Hydroxytyrosol5 mg/kg
Lignanes26 mg/kg
Ligstroside aglycone (p, HPEA-EA)20 mg/kg
Oleuropein aglycone (3,4 DHPEA-EA)71 mg/kg
Oleocanthal p, HPEA-EDA65 mg/kg
Tyrosol372 mg/kg
Polyphenols Total644 mg/kg
Polyphenol content in Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra Virgin Olive Oil In The Atlantic Diet

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And The Atlantic Diet

How The Atlantic Diet Compares To The Mediterranean Diet For Health

Summary

  • The Atlantic Diet includes extra virgin olive oil and is inspired by eating habits of northwestern Spain and Portugal.
  • Like The Mediterranean Diet, The Atlantic Diet emphasises fresh seasonal foods and health fats like olive oil and fish.
  • Unlike the Mediterranean diet, the Atlantic diet also includes moderate amounts of meat and pork products, as well as starchy vegetables like potatoes.
  • A quality extra virgin olive oil is an excellent addition to many recipes on The Atlantic Diet.

Contents

Atlantic Diet With Olive Oil Can Reduce Risk Of Metabolic Syndrome.

According to a new study, the Atlantic diet may reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome – the combination of high blood pressure, high blood fat levels, obesity, and high blood sugar – all of which can lead to heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.

As reported in Sight Magazine,

The researchers conducted what’s known as a secondary analysis – with data from a previous study on the Atlantic diet, the GALIAT Atlantic Diet study, in order to better understand its effects. This was a six-month randomised clinical trial, which included more than 500 participants who were grouped together by family.

As part of the GALIAT trial, families were placed into two groups. One group followed the Atlantic diet. They were also taught about the diet and given cooking classes to help adhere to it. The second group, who acted as the control group, followed their usual diet and lifestyle.

The study lasted for six months. At the beginning of the study and after six months, researchers collected information on participants’ food intake using a three-day food diary, as well as their physical activity levels, any medications they took and other variables such as weight if they smoked.

In the initial GALIAT diet study, the researchers found that the Atlantic diet group lost weight – whereas those in the control group gained weight. The Atlantic diet group also saw improvements in their levels of one type of cholesterol – though other types of cholesterol still remained the same. There were also no changes in their blood pressure and blood sugar.

In the recent secondary analysis of this study, the researchers found that overall, participants who had followed the Atlantic diet had significantly lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome compared to the control group. They also found that following the Atlantic diet lowered risk of obesity, improved waist circumference and levels of cholesterol (specifically high-density lipoprotein).

But though the Atlantic diet had an overall effect on lowering risk of metabolic syndrome, it wasn’t shown to have much effect on specific aspects of metabolic syndrome. Specifically, the researchers did not see any benefit from the Atlantic diet on blood pressure, blood sugar and blood fat levels.

Overall, the study shows that consuming the Atlantic diet may be helpful for managing weight – which may in turn lower risk of some long-term chronic conditions (such as cardiovascular disease).

What Is The Atlantic Diet And Where Does Extra Virgin Olive Oil Come In?

The Atlantic diet draws inspiration from the traditional eating habits of people living in northwestern Spain and Portugal. Similar to the Mediterranean diet, it emphasizes local, fresh, and minimally processed seasonal foods such as:

However, unlike the Mediterranean diet, the Atlantic diet also includes moderate amounts of meat and pork products, as well as starchy vegetables like potatoesResearchers suggest that the Atlantic diet may reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome, which includes high blood pressure, high blood fat levels, obesity, and high blood sugar1. It’s a wholesome approach that combines healthy eating with regional flavors!

Extra Virgin Olive Oil As Part Of The Mediterranean And Atlantic Diets

Keeping a bottle of the best olive oil in your store cupboard all year round is a great way to stay on track with either The Southern European Atlantic or The Mediterranean Diet.

Extra virgin olive oil is an integral part of the Mediterranean diet. A healthy diet that is associated with sensible tasty portions and slower, more enjoyable eating. People who eat a Mediterranean diet have been shown to have a remarkable variety of health benefits. The extra virgin olive oil in the Mediterranean diet can quickly satisfy hunger. It can lead to fewer total calories ingested at mealtime.

But, whichever diet you choose to follow, the key thing is to stick with it until it becomes an integral part of your lifestyle. This is especially important as we lead ourselves gently out of a global health pandemic.

Markos Klonizakis, a clinical physiologist at Sheffield Hallam University, in England, said one of the benefits of the Mediterranean diet is that there are many variations, making it adaptable across cultures. In addition, Klonizakis argues that the eating preferences of people can be shaped by many factors and the current pandemic may be one of them.

“Unhealthy food is easier to prepare. Maybe the coronavirus pandemic is a chance for us to start eating better. Of course, eating patterns are also a matter of trend, for example, the vegan regime has many adherents even though its benefits are not widely established, but nutritional tradition usually endures through time.”

Markos Klonizakis, a clinical physiologist, Sheffield Hallam University, England

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Listed As Key Food To Combat Candidiasis

Extra Virgin Olive Oil For Breakfast

Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Tackle Common Health Condition

Updated February 22nd 2024

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Listed As Key Food To Combat Candidiasis
Extra Virgin Olive Oil Combat Candidiasis

Summary

  • Extra virgin olive oil has been listed in top 10 foods to help combat Candida – a common yeast infection.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil is packed with polyphenols – powerful antioxidants that can help break down excess candida.
  • Extra virgin olive oil contains a compound called oleuropein, which has anti-fungal properties.
  • Extra virgin olive oil helps to restore the natural balance of gut flora.
  • Extra virgin olive oil provides the body with healthy fats that help to support a healthy immune system.

Contents

Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is Listed In Top 10 Foods to Help Combat Candida

As a health-conscious extra virgin olive oil lover, you may have heard about the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of this golden elixir. But did you know that it can also be a powerful weapon against candida overgrowth in the body? Candida is a naturally occurring yeast in our bodies that can cause trouble when its growth goes unchecked, leading to digestive issues, fatigue, and even skin problems.

Thankfully, there are natural solutions like extra virgin olive oil that can help combat candida and promote overall gut health. In this blog post, we will dive deeper into why extra virgin olive oil is one of the top foods to incorporate into your diet for managing candida levels in the body. Get ready to discover how this versatile ingredient can work wonders for both your taste buds and overall well-being!

Olive oil has been listed as one of the top 10 foods to help combat Candidiasis – a common yeast infection – thanks to the presence of powerful polyphenols in the olive fruit.

Candida is a type of yeast that normally lives in small amounts in places like your mouth and belly, or on your skin without causing any problems. But when the environment is right, the yeast can multiply and grow out of control. The infection it causes is called candidiasis.

The Top Ten Foods To Tackle Candidiasis

According to healthcentral.com,  Olive oil, avocado oil, flax oil, and primrose oil are packed with polyphenols – powerful antioxidants that can help break down excess candida. Additionally, olive oil contains the plant chemical oleuropein, which has anti-fungal properties and stimulates a healthy immune system. The other hero foods on Health Central’s list for fighting candida are:

  • Seaweed
  • Coconut Oil
  • Lemon Juice
  • Apple Cider Vinegar
  • Cloves
  • Rutabaga
  • Cinnamon
  • Salmon
  • Alliums

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Oleuropein

Candida is a type of yeast that naturally occurs in the gut, and while it is usually kept in balance by healthy gut flora, certain lifestyle factors can cause it to overgrow. When this happens, candida can lead to digestive issues, skin problems, and fatigue. Extra virgin olive oil has been shown to help combat candida overgrowth for several reasons. First, extra virgin olive oil contains a compound called oleupropein, which has anti-fungal properties. Second, extra virgin olive oil helps to restore the natural balance of gut flora. Finally, extra virgin olive oil provides the body with healthy fats that help to support a healthy immune system. As a result, extra virgin olive oil can be an effective tool in combating candida overgrowth.

As explained at thecandidadiet.com,  Olive leaf extract is derived from the dark green olive leaves and contains an active ingredient named Oleuropein. Scientific research has shown oleuropein to harbor an incredible array of health properties, including antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic ,and antiviral. New evidence has now suggested that olive leaf extract has the power to kill Candida albicans and ward off future overgrowth.

As well as being a natural and effective antifungal, olive leaf extract is shown to have anti-parasitic properties. It’s also been found that the extract contains almost double the antioxidant capacity than that of green tea, Vitamins C and E, and grape seed extract.

According to a 2015 study,  fresh olive leaf extract was able to effectively exhibit antifungal activity against Candida yeast. It appears that the Candida yeast is sensitive to the olive leaf extract, which indicates its efficacy as both a treatment and preventative for Candida symptoms such as oral thrush.

A similar study in 2016 showed oleuropein to have powerful antifungal activity against Candida albicans, with researchers noting that the oleuropein appeared to target various factors that the fungal infection needed to survive. It was also found that the oleuropein was able to inhibit the Candida from growing.

For more information on treatments for Candida, the rest of this article is available on at The Candida Diet.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Oleupropein

Polyphenols In Morocco Gold
Polyphenols In Morocco Gold

Morocco Gold And Oleupropein

Oleuropein aglycone is one of the chief polyphenols found in extra virgin olive oil. It is getting more and more global attention within the scientific and medical communities due to its biological properties including in anti-Alzheimer’s disease, anti-breast cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic effect, and anti-oxidative properties.

OA is derived from the de-glycosylation of oleuropein that exists in the leaves and stones of the olive fruit during the maturation period and is obtained during the pressing of the olives.

We have lots of useful information on the health benefits of oleupropein found in extra virgin olive oil here.  They include: anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and an Anti-Hyperglycemic Effect.

Make The Mediterranean Diet Your New Year’s Resolution

New Year Wellness With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Start Your 2024 Wellness Journey The Mediterranean Way

Updated December 23rd 2023

New Year Wellness With Extra Virgin Olive Oil
New Year Wellness With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

When it comes to making Wellness options for the new year ahead, there can be few better choices than embracing The Mediterranean Diet – packed full of healthy fats and polyphenols.

If you’re looking for a healthier lifestyle in the new year, why not make the Mediterranean Diet your number one wellness resolution? This wholesome way of eating is full of beneficial ingredients like healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants which can reduce your risk of diseases and lead to improved long-term health.

Unlike restrictive diets that leave you feeling deprived, the Mediterranean diet consists of healthy meals that are delicious and satisfying. Additionally, research has found that it leads to increased energy levels and lower cholesterol. If you want to kick-start a healthier lifestyle in 2024, getting started with the Mediterranean diet is a great choice!

We loved this report from Tapinto.net which reminds us that the simplicity of The Mediterranean Diet is it’s secret weapon!

Nutrition Expert Dr. Solmaz Amirnazmi of Summit Medical Group Livingston explains:

“There’s nothing radical about this way of eating, except that it makes you feel ‘radically good.”

Dr. Solmaz Amirnazmi of Summit Medical Group Livingston

Dr Solmaz explains that, to follow the Mediterranean Diet, aim to base meals on fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, nuts and whole grains. Use healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil instead of unhealthy saturated fats like butter.

“This diet does not exclude any food groups but places an emphasis on an abundance of plant-based ingredients. It is not necessarily non-meat. Also, fish is eaten on a regular basis in the Mediterranean diet,” says Dr. Amirnazmi.

“This is a satisfying, convenient way of eating, and of life. You will feel the benefits in energy and vitality, and most importantly, take a step toward controlling your life,” says Dr. Amirnazmi.

Get Ready To Start Your New Year With The Mediterranean Diet

To start your New Year’s Mediterranean Diet, Dr. Amirnazmi suggests stocking up on fresh fruits, veggies, nuts, legumes, seeds, spices, herbs and olive oil.

The internet is full of tips and plant-based recipes to help you get started. You can also find ways to create meals with more Mediterranean diet ingredients by looking at Morocco Gold’s recipe pages here.

Key Ingredients For A New Year Mediterranean Larder

Mediterranean Diet With Olive Oil
Mediterranean Diet With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Stocking a Mediterranean larder is the perfect way to enjoy all the nutritious goodness of the Mediterranean diet. Start with key ingredients like a quality extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and herbs – these are absolutely essential due to their use in mediterranean cooking as well as their health benefits.

Next, add colorful vegetables like onions, tomatoes, bell peppers and artichokes; these are versatile and great for adding flavor. Make sure you also have healthy grains such as whole wheat pasta or quinoa on hand for hearty side dishes; many mediterranean recipes incorporate these ingredients into main dishes.

Lastly, top off your Mediterranean larder with some delicious canned fish such as tuna or sardines. With this collection of mediterranean-style basics in your pantry, you can create a world of tasty and nourishing meals!

And Remember, The Mediterranean Diet Is About Lifestyle Too!

The Mediterranean diet is much more than just healthy meal planning; it emphasizes holistic wellbeing and promotes an active lifestyle. Those who adhere to the mediterranean diet don’t just focus on specific food categories and portions, but instead strive to create healthy habits that promote wellbeing and wellness. This includes focusing on physical activity, such as walking or cycling, and creating community-centric meals where family and friends gather around the table for conversation. All of this is done in order to emphasize balance in life, which contributes to better mental health, overall happiness, and physical vitality.

So if you’re interested in trying out a Mediterranean lifestyle, go ahead and give it a go – you’ll quickly notice how good it feels to live the Mediterranean this new year.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Wellness In 2024

Olive Oil Contributes To Wellness

Why Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil will be trending in 2024 and why you should make this best olive oil part of your lifestyle choices.

Updated December 22nd 2023

Morocco Gold Wellness
Morocco Gold Wellness
  1. Introduction
  2. Olive Oil: An Ancient Wisdom That Lives On
  3. Is Olive Oil A Food Or A medicine
  4. What Is Wellness?
  5. How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Increases Emotional Wellness
  6. Extra Virgin Olive Oil & The Environment
  7. Reducing Financial Stress Through A Healthy Diet : Including Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  8. Intellectual Wellness : Extra Virgin Olive Oil Aids Cognitive Functions
  9. Occupational Wellness : How A Healthy Diet With Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Help At Work
  10. Social Wellness
  11. Spiritual Wellness
  12. Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Physical Wellness

1/ Introduction

We are constantly bombarded with the latest advice / trends / fads to redefine the ways we can achieve good health, both mental and physical. However not all trends are created equal.

We are supposedly taking a much more holistic approach to wellness this year, here are just some of the ‘wellness trends’ that will be coming your way in 2024.

1. Sleep Syncing

A lack of sleep is said to make you ‘metabolically groggy‘, making it harder for your body to process insulin and contributing to weight gain.

2. Women’s Wellness

Women’s wellness beyond the menopause will become even more focussed on breaking taboos around broader women’s health issues such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fertility.

3. Gut-Brain Connection

Over the last five years or so, we’ve also seen a huge spike in patients now experiencing mood disorders, depression and anxiety, and often this is also related to their gut.

There is a network of around 100 million neurones lining our gut. It is so extensive that many scientists refer to our gut as our “second brain”. This multitude of neutrons is called the enteric nervous system and produces more serotonin (our happy hormone) than our actual brain. This is why the gut-brain connection is key in maintaining good health and preventing disease.

4. Incidental Exercise

Incidental exercise is activity that takes place in small amounts, at various points throughout the day which makes it far easier to fit into your everyday lives.

5. Matcha Makeover

Switching your morning drink from coffee to this Japanese superfood green tea matcha, is a small but impactful change this coming year to help reduce stress, manage anxiety, and give your immune system a boost.

6. EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (aka EMDR) is recommended for anybody who may be seeing issues related to ongoing low self-esteem or anxiety, patterns of dysfunction in relationships, persistent low mood, or any issues that are clearly linked to trauma (historical or recent).

7. Gender Inclusive Beauty

We’re about to see the boundaries separating men’s and women’s products blur as more of us will be encouraged to welcome gender inclusivity in skincare and beauty For example,  skincare should not be gender specific but should indeed be problem targeted, tackling the likes of breakouts, pores and irritation.

8. Facial Yoga

Facial yoga, or face yoga, is a routine made up of massages and exercises that help to stimulate the muscles, skin, and lymphatic system around your facial area. It’s thought to soften and relax your face muscles, relieving the visual signs of tension, stress and worry.

9. Digital Detox

Our increased dependency on smart phones, tablets and laptops is making many people reconsider their relationship with their electronic devices and this will give rise to the digital detox.

10. Mushroom Stacking

Mushroom stacking is one of the latest buzzwords, referring to combining medicinal mushrooms with other adaptogens and antioxidants (stacking) to enhance the benefits. This trend explores the stacks which work particularly well together and why.

An Enduring Health & Wellness Aid

Whilst some of these trends may offer help to individuals there is one that has stood the test of time – for centuries. In a fast-changing world it is unusual to re-discover a ‘wisdom of the ancients’ that is as potent now as it has been for thousands of years.

It has been known for centuries that high quality extra virgin olive oil is good for your health and wellbeing. It has also been lauded across many cultures. The difference now is – following extensive scientific research we now know exactly what is in high quality olive oils that are so good for you – its antioxidant polyphenols.

Morocco Gold is an exceptionally high-quality extra virgin olive oil from a unique new source.  What makes it so special however is it is teeming with health enhancing polyphenols, the antioxidants that provide protection against a wide range of chronic illnesses. This makes Morocco Gold particularly attractive to health and wellness conscious food lovers – worldwide.

Morocco Gold is on a mission to show health and wellness conscious food lovers how this incredibly simple diet / lifestyle choice, inclusion of a high-quality extra virgin olive oil can have a profound impact on their health and wellbeing.

2/ Extra Virgin Olive Oil : Ancient Wisdom That Lives On

The olive is among the oldest known cultivated trees in the world – being grown before written language was invented.  Extra virgin olive oil is the original superfood. Its flavour and health enriching properties have been celebrated and enjoyed for centuries.

Olive oil has long been considered sacred. The olive branch was often a symbol of abundance, glory, and peace. Over the years, the olive has also been used to symbolize wisdom, fertility, power, and purity.

Olive oil was used for not only food and cooking, but also lighting, sacrificial offerings, ointment, and ceremonial anointment for priestly or royal office. The leafy branches of the olive tree were ritually offered to deities and powerful figures as emblems of benediction and purification, and they were used to crown the victors of friendly games and bloody wars.

Legend has it that Poseidon, the sea god, and Athena, goddess of wisdom, competed to find the gift that would be most valuable to humankind. Poseidon offered the horse and Athena the olive tree. Because of its many uses, the provision of heat, food, medicine and perfume, the olive tree was chosen as the most valuable and in return for Athena’s contribution, the most powerful city in Greece was named Athens in her honour.

3/ Is Olive Oil A Food Or A Medicine?

In Rome, olive oil was used for nearly everything in relation to their health. Roman medicine takes heavily from Greek doctors, who influenced European medicine for centuries, and Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine writes about over 60 different conditions or ailments that can be treated with olive oil, including skin problems, burns and wounds, ear infections, gynecological problems, healing surgical scars, and much more. Many of these uses are still valid and are used as home remedies today.

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food”

Hippocrates : father of modern medicine

Olive oil was believed to bestow strength and youth, not least because of the tree’s longevity and its tremendous resilience. Even through the harshest summers and winters they continue to grow strong and bear fruit.

Extra virgin olive oil is now probably the most extensively researched foodstuff on the planet and its health benefits are evidence based. So – how can extra virgin olive oil contribute towards ‘wellness?’

How Can Extra Olive Oil Contribute Towards Wellness
How Can Extra Olive Oil Contribute Towards Wellness

4/ What is wellness?

Wellness is as an active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life. Wellness is more than being free from illness, it is a dynamic process of change and growth. Definitions include:

“…a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
The World Health Organization

“a conscious, self-directed and evolving process of achieving full potential.”
The National Wellness Institute

Maintaining an optimal level of wellness is crucial to living a higher quality life.  Wellness matters because every choice we make, everything we do and every emotion we feel relates to our well-being. In turn, our well-being directly affects our actions and emotions. It’s an ongoing circle.

There are reckoned to be eight dimensions of wellness: occupational, emotional, spiritual, environmental, financial, physical, social, and intellectual. Each dimension of wellness is interrelated with another. Each dimension is equally vital in the pursuit of optimum health.

5/ How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Increases Emotional Wellness

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Emotional Wellness
Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Emotional Wellness

Emotional wellness relates to understanding your feelings and coping effectively with stress. It is important to pay attention to self-care, relaxation, stress reduction and the development of inner resources so you can learn and grow from experiences. The better you understand the processes and manage those feelings, the smoother the ride will be.

When incorporated into a varied healthy diet, including plenty of fruit, vegetables and oily fish, extra virgin olive oil has been shown to contribute to decreasing the risk of depression.

According to a study from the University of Navarra and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, diet rich in extra virgin olive oil can help to protect from mental illness. 

The study included 12,059 volunteers and explored the dietary determinants of stroke, coronary disease and other disorders. The research was conducted over a period of 6 years, during which time the researchers gathered data on lifestyle factors including diet and medical history.

The results revealed that volunteers with a high intake of trans fats had up to 48 percent increased risk of depression compared to those who did not consumer those fats. In addition, the researchers also discovered that a higher intake of extra virgin olive oil and polyunsaturated fats was associated with a lower risk of depression.

This is one of a wealth of studies showing how extra virgin olive oil and the Mediterranean diet are associated with lower rates of depression.

6/ Extra Virgin Olive Oil & The Environment

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Environmental Wellness
Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Environmental Wellness

Environmental wellness inspires us to live a lifestyle that is respectful of our surroundings. This realm encourages us to live in harmony with the Earth by taking action to protect it. Environmental well-being promotes interaction with nature and your personal environment. Everyone can have a strong environmental conscious simply by raising their awareness.

A study by researchers from the University of Oxford and the University of Minnesota has demonstrated that foods that are considered to be healthy, such as whole-grain cereals, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and olive oil, also have the lowest environmental impact.

This extensive research by  Michael A Clark, Marco Springmann, Jason Hill, and  David Tilman, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) shows that eating healthier also means eating more sustainably and reveals a clear link between healthy food and environmental sustainability.

Food choices are shifting globally in ways that are negatively affecting both human health and the environment. Here the researchers considered how consuming an additional serving per day of each of 15 foods key food groups is associated with 5 health outcomes in adults and 5 aspects of agriculturally driven environmental degradation.

The researchers found that “while there is substantial variation in the health outcomes of different foods, foods associated with a larger reduction in disease risk for one health outcome are often associated with larger reductions in disease risk for other health outcomes. Likewise, foods with lower impacts on one metric of environmental harm tend to have lower impacts on others”.

“Additionally, of the foods associated with improved health (whole grain cereals, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, olive oil, and fish), all except fish have among the lowest environmental impacts, and fish has markedly lower impacts than red meats and processed meats. Foods associated with the largest negative environmental impacts—unprocessed and processed red meat—are consistently associated with the largest increases in disease risk.

Thus, dietary transitions toward greater consumption of healthier foods would generally improve environmental sustainability, although processed foods high in sugars harm health but can have relatively low environmental impacts. These findings could help consumers, policy makers, and food companies to better understand the multiple health and environmental implications of food choices”.

As part of the study, the researchers examined the impact of consuming an additional serving per day of fifteen specific foods on five “health outcomes” in adults that are brought on by poor diets and account for nearly 40 percent of global mortality, specifically: mortality, type two diabetes, stroke, coronary heart disease, and colorectal cancer.

At the same time, the effects on five “aspects of agriculturally driven environmental degradation” were studied including greenhouse gas emissions, land use, water use, acidification and eutrophication (the last two are forms of nutrient pollution).

The foods included chicken, dairy, eggs, fish, fruits, legumes, nuts, olive oil, potatoes, processed red meat, refined grain cereals, sugar-sweetened beverages, unprocessed red meat, vegetables, and whole-grain cereals.

By comparing the five health and five environmental impacts of each food, the researchers determined that foods with the lowest environmental impacts often have the largest health benefits. Foods such as whole-grain cereals, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, olive oil, and fish had the most positive impact on health while also having the lowest environmental impact (with the exception of fish).

Conversely, the foods with the largest environmental impacts, such as unprocessed and processed red meat were also associated with the highest risk of disease. Minimally processed, health-boosting plant foods and olive oil were found to have a low environmental impact, but so did processed foods high in sugar that are harmful to health, such as sugar-sweetened beverages.

7/ Reducing Financial Stress Through A Healthy Diet : Including Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Financial Stress
Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Financial Stress

Financial Wellness involves the process of learning how to successfully manage financial expenses. Money plays a critical role in our lives and not having enough of it impacts health as well as academic or professional performance. A common source of anxiety and fear is financial stress.

Extra virgin olive oil has been shown to have a significant impact on a range of chronic diseases. However the cost of these diseases at both national and personal levels can be enormous. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the number 1 cause of death globally: more people die annually from CVDs than from any other cause.

An estimated 17.9 million people died from CVDs in 2016, representing 31% of all global deaths. Of these deaths, 85% are due to heart attack and stroke. In 2016, the cost of CVD in the USA alone was around $555Bn. This is expected to rise to $1.1Tr by 2035.

About 70 million adults in the US have hypertension – that’s 1 in every 3! and only around 52% of people with hypertension have it under control. It is also likely that many are walking around with the condition who don’t even know they have it.

High blood pressure costs the USA around $48.6 billion each year. This total includes the cost of health care services, medications to treat high blood pressure, and loss of productivity from premature death.

1 in 3 Americans struggle with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and other digestive conditions daily. Healthcare spending on a single patient with a digestive disease can range from $18k to $150k per year. Of this, specialty medications can cost up to $70k per person per year.

When we look at the high cost of specialty drugs used to treat advanced digestive disorders, it’s easy to see how stigma and suffering in silence can eventually lead to a very expensive problem, for both individuals and health services.

All of these chronic diseases and many more can be alleviated by regular consumption of high quality extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold.

8/ Intellectual Wellness: Extra Virgin Olive Oil Aids Cognitive Functions

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Cognitive Functions
Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Cognitive Functions

Intellectual wellness is strengthened by continually engaging the mind.  Doing so can help you build new skills and knowledge that inspire and challenge you, and help you grow. You might choose different ways to keep your mind sharp, depending on your mood. For some, that’s brain games and puzzles, or scholastic endeavours. Even simply engaging in intellectually stimulating conversations and debates can strengthen your intellectual wellness.

People who eat a Mediterranean-style diet, known to include fish, leafy vegetables and extra virgin olive oil, increase their chances of better cognitive function, particularly later in life.

The scientific research, by Edinburgh University, has shown that consuming lower amounts of red meat and following the principles of Mediterranean cuisine correlated with higher scores in memory and thinking tests in the over 70s.

Extra virgin olive oil is a key component of the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts.

These latest findings suggest that this primarily plant-based diet may have benefits for cognitive function as we get older.

Researchers involved in the study tested the thinking skills of more than 500 people aged 79 and without dementia. The participants completed tests of problem solving, thinking speed, memory and word knowledge, as well as a questionnaire about their eating habits during the previous year.

More than 350 of the group also underwent a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scan to gain insights into their brain structure.   The team used statistical models to look for associations between a person’s diet and their thinking skills and brain health in later life. 

The findings show that, in general, people who most closely adhered to a Mediterranean diet had the highest cognitive function scores, even when accounting for other factors, including childhood IQ, smoking, physical activity and health factors.

9/ Occupational Wellness : How A Healthy Diet With Extra Virgin Olive Oil can Help At Work

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Occuptional Wellness
Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Occuptional Wellness

Occupational wellness is about enjoying your occupational endeavors and appreciating your contributions. This dimension of wellness encourages personal satisfaction and enrichment in one’s life through work.

While many enlightened companies focus on physical activity in their corporate wellness program, they often don’t prioritize the other pieces of the wellness puzzle – nutrition. According to the Institute for Health Metrics, poor nutrition has nearly three times the impact on health as low fitness. While more than two-thirds of the U.S. population classified as obese and 86 million Americans struggling with pre-diabetes, the need for better, more accessible nutrition education is evident. 

Eating well in the workplace can have a significant impact on overall health and well-being. Nutritious foods can improve concentration and cognitive function, boosting an employee’s workplace performance. It is well documented that employee well-being leads to higher creativity and productivity. The World Health Organization (WHO) has found that optimal nourishment can raise national productivity levels by 20%. Healthy employees are happier, calmer, more engaged, sleep better and get sick less often. 

Providing healthy food options in the corporate setting is an effective way to get employees to stick to smart eating habits which benefits both the individual and the company.

Social Wellness

Social relationships create support systems that can carry you through life’s struggles. Harvard’s Study of Adult Development ran for 80 years, collecting data on hundreds of participants. A recent study on a subset of this population, surviving octogenarians, investigated the connections between marital satisfaction, social lives, and happiness. Researchers found that participants who spent more time with others reported greater levels of happiness.

The impact of surrounding yourself with those that care for you can’t be understated. When the demands of life increase and stress mounts, the ability to turn to someone for support and understanding is powerful. Building and maintaining these networks take time and energy, but the work is worth the effort. And it will continue to serve you throughout your life.

11. Spiritual Wellness

The spiritual pillar will look different for everyone because it’s such a personal piece of overall wellness. For instance, it will play a stronger role in one person’s life more than another, depending on how each person defines it.

Firstly, spirituality is commonly viewed as a sense of purpose, direction, or meaning, without which, values can slip to the wayside, upending life’s balance. Secondly, many cultivate their spirituality through meditation, prayer, or other activities that foster a connection to nature or a higher power.

Lastly, maintaining your spiritual wellness will look different for everyone. It’s not about a specific religion or belief system. Spiritual health is about personalizing your journey. Some people might practice mindfulness as a way of checking in with their intentions, guiding their actions, and maintaining a values-based approach to life. However, how you choose to strengthen your spiritual health is up to you.

12. Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Physical Wellness

Physical wellness relates to maintaining a healthy body and seeking care when needed. Physical health is attained through exercise, eating well, getting enough sleep and paying attention to the signs of illness and getting help when needed.

Physical Wellness encourages us to care for our bodies through physical activity, proper nutrition, and a strong mind.

Being physically active is crucial to keeping your body in its top condition. A few proven benefits of physical activity are strengthened bones and muscles, reduced risk of disease and stroke, and more energy.

How A Diet With Extra Virgin Olive Aids Physical Wellness

Whether you are training for a competition or just building your fitness and strength for wellbeing and health, your results will be influenced by the diet you eat. 

Choosing foods which are rich in healthy fats, such as extra virgin olive oil, can help improve your body’s potential in many ways, including muscle recovery and increased energy levels.

For instance, this is particularly good news for runners who are considering following a Mediterranean diet to improve performance.   According to a recent report in Runner’s World,  the range of foods and good fats from nuts, seeds and extra virgin olive oil can benefit runners in a number of ways.

By substituting heavily processed fats in meats and refined grains with more fruit, vegetables and fish, runners can increase their carbohydrate intake, providing the quick-burning fuel that they need.

Nutrition

It is important to nurture your body by eating a well-balanced diet. Filling yourself with a variety of nutrients and vitamins will not only help prevent illness but will also keep your body functioning at its best.

This is where high quality extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold really helps. Researchers have demonstrated that regular use of high-quality extra virgin olive oil contributes towards:

If you think of your body as a highly tuned machine – extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold helps the machine run smoothly. Therefore, it means that you are taking care of the ‘inner self’ and is one less thing to be concerned about in achieving overall wellness.

Understanding the relationship between your body’s physical health and mental health is crucial in order to develop a balanced physical wellness. When you take the route to physical wellness you will learn to understand how your body preforms physically and be able to connect it to how you feel mentally. Physical wellness encourages principles of good health and knowledge, which affect behaviour patterns that lead to a healthy lifestyle. The following are a few suggestions to maintain an optimal level of physical wellness.

  • Engage in physical activity everyday for 30 minutes.
  • Use stairs instead of the elevator or escalator and walk whenever possible.
  • Learn to recognize warning signs when your body begins feeling ill.
  • For instance, eat a variety of healthy foods and control your meal portions.
  • Maintain a regular sleep schedule and get between 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
  • Practice safe sex.

This in turn will help with…

Mental Well-Being

Having optimal levels of physical activity and maintaining proper nutrition is key to improving your overall intellectual and emotional wellness. Not only will you sharpen your thinking and learning abilities, you will also enhance your sense of self-esteem and self-control.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil In Top Ten Best And Worst Foods For Wellness

Food For Energy And Reduced Stress

Foods To Choose And Avoid For More Energy And Less Stress

Updated December 15th 2023

Food For Energy And Reduced Stress
Food For Energy And Reduced Stress

Summary:

  • Extra virgin olive oil has been listed as one of top ten foods to help boost energy and reduce stress, according to Harvard Nutritionist.
  • Mediterranean Diet including healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil can boost chance of happy brain and healthy body.
  • Other foods listed in the report include a range of Probiotics, Low-GI carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and herbs.
  • One study found that following a Mediterranean Diet improved 5K running times when compared to eating a standard Western diet.

Contents:

The Link Between Certain Foods Like Quality Olive Oil, Energy And Stress Levels

Are you looking for ways to boost your energy and reduce stress? If so, you’re not alone. A lot of people are looking for healthy foods that can help them feel their best both mentally and physically.

While there is no one perfect food that will do the trick, there are some foods, including a quality extra virgin olive oil, that are better than others when it comes to providing energy and reducing stress. In this post, we’ll take a look at what those foods are, as well as some of the best choices to avoid if you’re looking for high energy and low stress. So whether you’re looking to change up your diet or just curious about which foods are best for you, keep reading!

The Mediterranean Diet For High Energy And Low Stress

Have you been feeling bogged down lately? Are you looking for natural ways to increase your energy and decrease your stress levels? Look no further than The Mediterranean Diet. This approach to eating is centred around whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes. However, the real star of the show is the use of extra virgin olive oil.

Studies have shown that incorporating this healthy oil into your diet can lead to higher energy levels and lower stress. So not only will you be improving your physical health, but your mental health as well. Give The Mediterranean Diet a try and feel the difference!

According to Harvard Nutritionist and Brain Expert Dr Uma Naidoo the gut and the brain are in constant two-way communication, and the health of one directly influences the health of the other. 

More specifically, when inflammation is present in the gut, less energy is available to the brain and body. That’s because low-grade inflammation flips off a metabolic switch in the chemical pathway that produces energy.

By choosing a diet that replicates many of the principles of The Mediterranean Diet, including plenty of healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, you can boost your chances of a happy brain and a healthy body.

The Top Ten Recommended Foods To Boost Energy And Reduce Stress

Dr Naidoo specifically recommends the following foods to fight fatigue and boost energy:

  • Probiotics: yogurt with active cultures, tempeh, miso, sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi, kombucha and certain cheeses
  • Prebiotics: beans, oats, bananas, berries, garlic, onions, dandelion greens, asparagus, artichokes and leeks
  • Low-GI carbohydrates: brown rice, quinoa, steel-cut oatmeal and chia seeds
  • Medium-GI foods, in moderation: honey, orange juice and whole-grain bread
  • Healthy fats: monounsaturated fats like a high quality olive oil, nuts, nut butters and avocados
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: fish, especially fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring and sardines.
  • Vitamins: B9, B12, B1, B6, A and C
  • Minerals and micronutrients: iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc and selenium
  • Spices: saffron and turmeric
  • Herbs: oregano, lavender, passionflower and chamomile

Conversely, she suggests that the following foods should be avoided to reduce stress levels:

  • Processed foods
  • Industrial Seed Oils
  • Added and Refined Sugars
  • Fried Foods
  • Artificial Sweeteners

How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Benefit Your Energy Levels

Extra virgin olive oil has been shown to have benefits for energy levels. One reason is that it contains monounsaturated fats, which help to increase energy and vitality. Additionally, the antioxidants in extra virgin olive oil can help to protect cells from oxidative damage, which can lead to fatigue. Using extra virgin olive oil in your cooking or as a dietary supplement can help you feel more energetic and vibrant.

In normal adult diet, fats represent between 25% and 30% of the total energy intake. This energy intake cannot be replaced by another type of food, since fatty acids are essential to maintain proper health. 

That is why we must consume excellent quality fats. As you may know if you’ve done a bit of prior research, we must avoid saturated fats (pastries, butter, meat, coconut or palm oil). Instead, we should take healthier ones such as monounsaturated fats (extra virgin olive oil) and polyunsaturated fats (blue fish and nuts).

Whether you are training for a competition or just building your fitness and strength for wellbeing and health, your results will be influenced by the diet you eat. 

Choosing foods which are rich in healthy fats, such as Extra Virgin Olive Oil, can help improve your body’s potential in many ways, including muscle recovery and increased energy levels.

One study found that following a Mediterranean Diet improved 5K running times when compared to eating a standard Western diet. The significant quantity of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants obtained from eating the Mediterranean way can also potentially boost endurance energy and a person’s ability to stay mentally strong in performance.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Wellness

Most people think of wellness as a way to achieve or maintain physical health. But, at Morocco Gold, we know that wellness is about more than just your body. It’s also about your mind and spirit. Wellness is about being healthy in all aspects of your life. It’s about making choices that support your well-being.

The Mediterranean diet, which includes an emphasis on healthy ‘monounsaturated fats’ found in foods such as extra virgin olive oil, is known to help prevent a wide range of diseases such as cardiovascular disease or stroke.

One of the best ways to start your day with a nutritional boost is by drinking extra virgin olive oil, first thing in the morning.  This is a quick and easy way to boost your daily intake of antioxidants and healthy fats. Drinking a shot of olive oil in the morning can be good for your skin, throat and help as part of a wellness plan.

Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help To Reduce Blood Pressure?

Olive Oil and Blood Pressure

Showing how the polyphenols in best olive oil – extra virgin olive oil delivers further health benefits

Updated December 13th 2023

Best olive oil helps Blood Pressure
Can Olive Oil Help Reduce Blood Pressure?

Summary:

  • Extra virgin olive oil listed as a top food to maintain healthy blood pressure, says new report.
  • The best olive oil takes its place in Today.com list alongside 16 other foods in management of hypertension.
  • Extra virgin olive oil provide blood-pressure lowering effects due to polyphenols and oleic acid, which may help reduce overall risk factors, like blood pressure, for heart disease. 
  • Morocco Gold’s latest harvest has produced a low acidity level of 0.2% together with an exceptionally high level of polyphenols.

Contents:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Makes New List of Top Foods For Blood Pressure

Extra virgin olive oil has made the list of top foods to maintain healthy blood pressure, according to a new report on Today.com

The list, which includes 16 other essential foods to reduce blood pressure, describes extra virgin olive oil as the optimal fat choice in the management of hypertension.

Also on the list are foods that often appear alongside extra virgin olive oil on the Mediterranean Diet, including Avocado, Salmon, Almonds and Pumpkin Seeds.

High blood pressure affects millions of people, and finding ways to lower it can be challenging. Fortunately, certain foods can be incredibly beneficial in helping to bring it down. Fruits and vegetables are also key players in the game of lowering blood pressure.

By providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these foods help to relax blood vessels and decrease blood pressure. Another great food to add to your diet is salmon. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this fish can help reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure. Finally, nuts are a delicious source of potassium, magnesium, and fiber – all nutrients which can help contribute to a healthy blood pressure range. By incorporating these foods into your diet, you’ll be taking important steps towards lowering your blood pressure and improving your overall health.

Why Diet Can Be As Crucial As Medication For Healthy Blood Pressure

Making smart dietary choices is one effective way to keep high blood pressure in check. One such choice is including extra virgin olive oil in your diet. This oil has been found to have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart diseases, protecting against inflammation, and potentially even reducing blood pressure. Studies have shown that consuming extra virgin olive oil regularly can help decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

The presence of polyphenols in this oil is believed to be the reason behind its blood pressure-lowering effects, so it’s important to choose extra virgin olive oil over other types to fully reap its benefits. Adding extra virgin olive oil to your dishes not only enhances their flavor but also helps promote a healthy heart.

A recent article from Today points out that diet plays an important role in controlling blood pressure levels and – in some cases – choosing the right diet can be just as effective as medication in controlling blood pressure.

Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is One of Top Foods For Blood Pressure Control

Polyphenols In Morocco Gold
Polyphenols In Morocco Gold

The Today article refers to a 2020 study in the journal Nutrients describing olive oil as “ the optimal fat choice in the management protocols for hypertension in both healthy and cardiovascular disease patients.” Olive oil is high in polyphenols and oleic acid, which may help reduce overall risk factors, like blood pressure, for heart disease.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Blood Pressure Control

 Thanks to the recent spotlight on the Mediterranean Diet, extensive research has been done on the composition of best olive oil. What has been discovered is an extensive list of phytonutrients; one of the most praised is its polyphenols.

Polyphenols have been shown to reduce morbidity and/or slow down the progression of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and cancer diseases. The mechanism of action of polyphenols strongly relates to their antioxidant activity.

Polyphenols are known to decrease the level of reactive oxygen species in the human body. In addition, health-promoting properties of plant polyphenols comprise anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-mutagenic effects. There is a body of research demonstrating their ability to modulate the human immune system by affecting the proliferation and activity of white blood cells, as well as the production of cytokines or other factors that participate in immunological defence.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is High In Polyphenols

Our latset harvest has produced a low acidity level of 0.2% together with the highest level of polyphenols yet seen in our extra virgin olive oil.

3,4 DHPEA-EDA 85 mg/kg
Hydroxytyrosol5 mg/kg
Lignanes26 mg/kg
Ligstroside aglycone (p, HPEA-EA)20 mg/kg
Oleuropein aglycone (3,4 DHPEA-EA)71 mg/kg
Oleocanthal p, HPEA-EDA65 mg/kg
Tyrosol372 mg/kg
Polyphenols Total644 mg/kg
Polyphenol content in Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil

What Other Foods Can Lower Blood Pressure?

If you are looking for a natural way to lower your blood pressure, the good news is that there are plenty of foods, in addition to extra virgin olive oil, that can help you achieve this goal. Among the top 16 foods that can lower blood pressure are leafy greens such as spinach and kale, berries like strawberries and blueberries, beans and lentils, fatty fish like salmon and sardines, whole grains such as oatmeal and brown rice, and fruits like bananas and avocados. By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can work towards reducing your blood pressure and improving your overall health. So, the next time you plan your meals, make sure to add these top 16 foods to your grocery list!

  • Avocado
  • Beets
  • Lemons
  • Dark chocolate
  • Coffee
  • Almonds
  • Celery
  • Spinach
  • Apples
  • Wild salmon
  • Yogurt
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Cinnamon
  • Oregano
  • Garlic
  • Blueberries

All in all, extra virgin olive oil is proving to be one of the best foods to help with lower blood pressure. Not only is it delicious and can add great flavor to many dishes, but also it has a plethora of health benefits that can aid in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

The polyphenols found in extra virgin olive oil are antioxidants that help prevent damage from oxidation and inflammation caused by free radicals, thus reducing the risk for hypertension. It’s important to incorporate healthy cooking oils like extra virgin olive oil into your diet since they provide essential nutrients for sustaining healthy living habits. So next time you shop for ingredients to prepare meals, be sure to pick up some high-quality extra virgin olive oil and benefit from its amazing ability to lower blood pressure!

Four Teaspoons Of Olive Oil A Day Can Benefit Heart Health

Shot Of Olive Oil In The Morning

New Study Shows Benefits of Daily Shot Of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Updated 4th December 2023

Shot Of Olive Oil In The Morning
Four Teaspoons Of Olive Oil In The Morning For Heart Health

Summary:

  • New report says consuming 20 mls of extra virgin olive oil a day made a noticeable difference to heart health.
  • The study from the University of Glasgow shows a reduction in coronary artery disease (CAD) markers following six weeks of consumption of olive oil with differing levels of phenolics.
  • In comparison to the extra virgin olive oil findings, consuming similar quantities of rapeseed and sunflower oil had no impact whatsoever.
  • Consuming extra virgin olive oil regularly as part of a healthy Mediterranean Diet can improve your overall heart health.

Contents:

New Report Shows Link Between Daily Consumption of Olive Oil And Heart Health

Consuming four teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil a day could have a significant improvement on your heart health, according to a new study.

The report, which adds to previous findings from Dr Bill Mullen, a senior research fellow of cardiovascular and metabolic health at the University of Glasgow, finds olive oil to be the only common cooking oil with a positive impact on heart health.

Researchers at the Glasgow based study found that just six weeks of consuming 20 mls of olive oil a day made a noticeable difference to heart health. In comparison, consuming similar quantities of rapeseed and sunflower oil had no impact whatsoever.

Dr Mullen told Huffpost:

[The olive oil] results were like hitting the jackpot as far as I was concerned. Although I knew the science, it is extremely rare in nutritional research to see such strikingly positive results.

Both extra virgin olive oil and olive oil produced significant changes after only six weeks, a change of 0.3 in the coronary artery disease biomarker score. 

Dr Bill Mullen

Previous Findings Show Effect Of Olive Oil On Heart-Health-Related Biomarkers In Urine. 

According to a report in Sytlist.co.uk, Dr Mullen and his team had previously shown that  olive oil can have a tangible impact on the presence of heart-health-related ‘biomarkers’ in urine. These biomarkers are protein fragments which can indicate the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) before symptoms have even started. 

Researchers for this 2014 study recruited 69 healthy volunteers who were split into two groups and asked to consume 20ml of olive oil either low or high in phenolics every day over a six-week period. A particular feature of the study was the target group studied: healthy individuals who did not regularly consume olive oil.

The results showed that both groups saw a big improvement in scores for CAD – the most common form of heart disease. The proteomic biomarkers developed for clinical diagnosis by private firm Mosaiques Diagnostics produces a CAD scoring system from 1: the ultimate case of CAD to -1: the ultimate healthy artery.

The group taking the low phenol olive oil saw a drop in CAD score from -0.5 to -0.8 while the high phenol group saw a reduction from -0.6 to -0.8.

Of these results, Dr Bill Mullen said: “If we are able to identify the early signatures of diseases before they have had a chance to take hold we can start to treat them before they become a problem requiring costly medical intervention.

However, the team had not applied this measurement technique to other cooking oils – and that’s what the new study set out to do. 

Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil Daily

Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy fat that has numerous health benefits. It’s important to consume extra virgin olive oil every day, and the recommended amount is one shot (tablespoon), which equals approximately 23 grams. extra virgin olive oil can be used in cooking, as a dressing for salads, or simply taken alone as a shot. Extra virgin olive oil is also a good source of antioxidants. So make sure to include extra virgin olive oil in your diet every day (ideally four teaspoons of olive oil)!

If you want to get the health benefits of olive oil such as reduced risk of heart disease, lower ldl cholesterol and others, you can include extra virgin olive oil as part of a healthy diet, like the Mediterranean Diet or increasingly popular Keto Diet. You can also have ‘a shot’ first thing in the morning.

What Makes Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil So Special?

The high polyphenol content of Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil is dependent on three factors. First is the variety of the olive, secondly the climate and terroire of the growing region and thirdly the actual time in the growing season that the crop is harvested.

Morocco Gold is pressed from the Picholine Marocaine, the only type of olive to go into Morocco Gold. Oil from this variety is renowned for it’s high polyphenol count, oxidative stability and longevity.

Spring Planting Of Morocco Gold
Beni Mellal Region Olive Trees Harvested

Our olives are grown in a valley that is about 2,000 feet above sea level. This helps to create the additional climatic challenges that encourage polyphenol uptake within the olive tree. It is also an area with naturally occurring high phenols in the soil itself.

In soils, phenols are released over extended period of time from decomposing plant materials. This causes complex organic compounds to be slowly oxidized or to break down into simpler forms of sugars, amino sugars, aliphatic and phenolic organic acids. These are further transformed into microbial biomass or are reorganized, and further oxidized, into humic assemblages (fulvic and humic acids), which bind to clay minerals.

There has been a long debate about the ability of plants to uptake humic substances through their root systems and to metabolize them. There is now a consensus about how humus plays a hormonal role rather than simply a nutritional role in plant physiology. Olive trees grown in ‘challenging’ conditions encourage the uptake of naturally occurring phenols in the soil. This in turn aids the circulatory system within the olive tree, with the phenols eventually finding their way to the olive fruit itself.

Thirdly, our olives are picked when the fruit is young and green. As the olives age on the tree, the colour of the olive changes to red and then black, the size of the olive increases thus producing more oil, but the polyphenol level decreases. There is a great deal of expertise within the farming community where we source our oil to ensure that the harvest is collected at the optimum time to maximise the polyphenol level.

Health Benefits Of Olive Oil
Health Benefits Of Olive Oil

Extra Virgin olive oil is the go-to cooking oil for health-conscious food lovers and those wanting to cook healthily and lose weight. Mostly everyone who has ever read about a diet or has looked up for healthy food recipes is familiar with olive oil and its heart-healthy properties.

Mediterranean Diet And Extra Virgin Oil Are Two Key Changes To Make In Later Life

Longevity With Mediterranean Diet

New Study Reveals Health Benefits Of A Mediterranean Diet on Longevity

Updated November 16th 2023

Top Health Switches To Make In Later Life
Top Health Switches To Make In Later Life

Summary:

  • Adopting The Mediterranean Diet including extra virgin olive oil as a healthy fat will benefit your health in later life, according to new study.
  • Swapping processed foods for Omega-3 fatty acids such as extra virgin olive oil is one of best ways to keep inflammation in check as you age.
  • The Mediterranean Diet, rich in antioxidant-rich foods like the best olive oil and oily fish can reduce the signs of ageing and limit cellular damage.
  • The principals of The Mediterranean Diet stretch beyond nutritional choices to lifestyle habits such as regular exercise also.

Contents:

Switching to The Mediterranean Diet and swapping vegetable oil for extra virgin olive oil are two of the best changes you can make for your health in later life, according to a new report.

Key Health Switches To Make In Later Life

Talking to Sheer Lux, six experts have shared their advice on which small lifestyle tweaks can make all the difference to your energy, mood and weight as you age. And extra virgin olive oil plus The Mediterranean Diet have made the list. They say:

Swap Vegetable For Extra Virgin Olive Oil

“Keeping inflammation in check is key as you age, and one of the best ways to do this is to ensure you’re eating the right type of fats. Eating processed foods that offer little nutritional value leads to inflammation, which is at the root of most chronic diseases. The average Western diet tends to be high in inflammatory ultra-processed food and is deficient in omega-3 fats.

For example, vegetable oils like corn, canola, soybean and safflower oil are highly processed and linked to dementia, heart disease and cancer. Instead, use more olive oil, drizzle extra virgin olive oil on food and eat more oily fish like sardines, salmon, anchovies and trout. Plant-based sources of omega-3 are trickier to find – if you follow a plant-based diet, take an algae oil supplement.” – Nikki Hillis, women’s wellness educator

Eat A Mediterranean Diet

“A diet rich in colourful, organic fruit and vegetables, as well as complex carbs, healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil and lean protein, is proven to be one of the healthiest diets on the planet. Include antioxidant-rich foods daily to reduce the signs of ageing and limit cellular damage – broccoli, avocado, sweet potato, blueberries and pomegranate are particularly nutrient dense. Broccoli also contains a compound that boosts DNA repair cells.”

Nikki Hillis

The other key changes or habits the experts back are:

  • Stop Snacking
  • Cut Back On Cardio
  • Approach Probiotics With Caution
  • Use It Or Lose It
  • Don’t Rush Meals
  • Optimise Your Circadian Rhythm
  • Prioritise Protein
  • …But Spread It Out Over The Day
  • Protect Your Bones
  • Strengthen Family Ties
  • Try Something New
  • Get Your Hormones Tested

For the full article please see Sheer Lux and for  more from the experts visit CharlotteHunterNutrition.co.ukNikkiHillis.comION.ac.ukHelenPerks.comTransitionZone.co.uk and WomenWise.Health

New Study Reveals Health Benefits Of A Mediterranean Diet on Longevity

Longevity With Mediterranean Diet
Longevity With Mediterranean Diet

If you want to boost your longevity the simple way, The Mediterranean Diet could add up to 13 years to your life according to a new study. The report, published in the journal PLOS Medicine, claims that a man eating a Mediterranean diet – often rich in the best olive oil – from age 20 could add 13 years to his life.  If a woman began eating optimally at age 20, she could increase her lifespan by just over 10 years.

The study also claims that choosing an eating plan with the health benefits of The Mediterranean Diet could also extend the life expectancy of older adults.

As reported by CNN,  by starting at age 60, a woman could still increase her lifespan by eight years. Men starting a healthier diet at age 60 might add nearly nine years to their lives.  And the benefits don’t stop there!

A plant-based eating style, such as an olive oil rich Mediterranean Diet, could even benefit an older generation, with both men and women in their 80s potentially gaining about 3.5 years of extra life from dietary changes.

Reported on CNN, Dr. David Katz, a specialist in preventive and lifestyle medicine and nutrition, who was not involved in the study said:

The notion that improving diet quality would reduce the risk of chronic disease and premature death is long established, and it only stands to reason that less chronic disease and premature death means more life expectancy,”

Dr. David Katz

Katz, the president and founder of the nonprofit True Health Initiative, a global coalition of experts dedicated to evidence-based lifestyle medicine, has published research on how to use food as preventive medicine.

“What they define as an ‘optimal’ diet is not quite optimal; it’s just a whole lot better than ‘typical,'” Katz said, adding that he felt diet could be “further improved, conferring even greater benefits.”

“My impression is that their ‘much improved’ diet still allowed for considerable doses of meat and dairy,” Katz said, adding that when his team scores diet quality objectively, “these elements are at quite low levels in the top tier.”

“My impression is that their ‘much improved’ diet still allowed for considerable doses of meat and dairy,” Katz said, adding that when his team scores diet quality objectively, “these elements are at quite low levels in the top tier.”

How Can The Best Olive Oil Contribute To A Healthy Lifestyle?

A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve your health and well-being. There are many different things that you can do to live a healthy lifestyle, such as following the principals of the Mediterranean Diet.

The Mediterranean Diet is based on the regular consumption of olive oil (as the main source of monounsaturated fat), plant foods (cereals, fruits, vegetables, legumes, tree nuts, and seeds), the moderate consumption of fish, seafood, and dairy, and low-to-moderate alcohol (mostly red wine) intake, balanced by a comparatively limited use of red meat and other meat products.  In addition, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing your stress are important contributing factors to a healthy lifestyle. However, a healthy lifestyle isn’t just about healthy eating and exercise, it also about taking care of the “whole you” – your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. And that means taking care of you from the inside out.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And A Healthy Lifestyle Diet

Olive Oil And The Nordic Diet
Extra Virgin Olive Oil And A Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle diet can be achieved by maintaining a daily intake of healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, healthy (monounsaturated) fats like extra virgin olive oil, and omega-3 fatty acids.  The key unhealthy foods to avoid are red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, trans fat, and sodium.

Healthy Lifestyle Benefits

As it turns out, healthy habits make a big difference. According to this analysis, people who met criteria for all five habits enjoyed significantly, impressively longer lives than those who had none: 14 years for women and 12 years for men (if they had these habits at age 50). People who had none of these habits were far more likely to die prematurely from cancer or cardiovascular disease.

Study investigators also calculated life expectancy by how many of these five healthy habits people had. Just one healthy habit (and it didn’t matter which one) … just one… extended life expectancy by two years in men and women. Not surprisingly, the more healthy habits people had, the longer their lifespan.

This is huge. And, it confirms prior similar research — a lot of prior similar research. A 2017 study using data from the Health and Retirement Study found that people 50 and older who were normal weight, had never smoked, and drank alcohol in moderation lived on average seven years longer. A 2012 mega-analysis of 15 international studies that included over 500,000 participants found that over half of premature deaths were due to unhealthy lifestyle factors. In summary these are poor diet, inactivity, obesity, excessive alcohol intake, and smoking. And the list of supporting research goes on.

Healthy Lifestyle Exercise

This was defined as at least 30 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous activity daily.

Healthy body weight

Defined as a normal body mass index (BMI), which is between 18.5 and 24.9.

Healthy Living & Smoking

There is no healthy amount of smoking. “Healthy” here meant never having smoked.

Healthy Living & alcohol intake

Measured as between 5 and 15 grams per day for women, and 5 to 30 grams per day for men. Generally, one drink contains about 14 grams of pure alcohol. That’s 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits.

Researchers also looked at data on age, ethnicity, and medication use, as well as comparison data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention’s Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research.

How Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Supports A Healthy Lifestyle

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is probably the most extensively researched foodstuff on the planet and it’s health benefits are evidence based. Extra virgin olive oil has an extensive list of phytonutrients; one of the most praised is its polyphenols. The amount of polyphenols found in extra virgin olive oil is truly amazing!

Types Of Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil

There are a number of different types of polyphenols in Extra Virgin olive oil, including oleuropein, tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, oleocanthal and oleacein.  Each are considered extremely strong antioxidants, and are linked to a number of different benefits. For instance:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The Healthiest Of Fats

According to the American Heart Association, dietary fats are an essential part of a healthy living diet, as fats provide energy, improve cell growth, absorption of nutrients, and create important hormones. Not only does olive oil consist mainly of healthy monounsaturated fats, but it is also the only fat that contains high levels of polyphenols. In conclusion this makes extra virgin olive oil without question the healthiest of all fats.

Mediterranean Diet With Extra Virgin Olive Oil Could Save Money During Pregnancy

Benefits Of Mediterranean Diet During Pregnancy

New Research Asks If Mediterranean Diet Including Olive Oil Meets Nutritional Requirements During Pregnancy

Updated November 15th 2023

Summary:

  • The Mediterranean Diet (Including Extra Virgin Olive Oil) Could Help Avoid Pregnancy-Related Challenges, says new report.
  • Maternal weight gain, nutrient deficiencies, and other complications could be reduced by following Mediterranean Diet, using extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) as the main source of fat.
  • Research participants with higher adherence to the Mediterranean Diet had adequate Fatty Acids essential for fetal growth, especially of the brain and eyes.
  • recent study has shown that women who follow a healthy diet, including the Mediterranean Diet, throughout pregnancy are 50% less likely to have a preterm birth as a result.

Contents:

Researchers have evaluated whether adopting the Mediterranean Diet including extra virgin olive oil during pregnancy can meet the unique requirements of the body during this time.

A recent article published in the Frontiers in Public Health Journal found that The Mediterranean Diet could help avoid multiple pregnancy-related challenges, such as maternal weight gain, nutrient deficiencies, and other complications.

Details of the study have been summarised by Neha Mathur in News-Medical.net, as follows:

Why Consider Mediterranean Diet During Pregnancy?

Studies have described that up to 30% of pregnant females remain deficient in micronutrients, such as folic acid and vitamins A, B6, C, D, and E. Dietary patterns during gestation. However, a modifiable factor might have permanent health consequences on the neonate.

The guidelines for nutritional supplementation during pregnancy vary widely across different geographical regions.

For instance, in Spain, they only recommend additionally supplementing folic acid and iodine during pregnancy and rely mainly on adhering to MedDiet to meet the requirements of most other micronutrients.

The Mediterranean Diet includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, seeds, nuts in high amounts, and fish, seafood, eggs, and fermented dairy products, e.g., yogurt, in moderate amounts. It uses extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) as the main source of fat for dressings and cooking.

In the recent Improving Mothers for a Better Prenatal Care Trial BarCeloNa (IMPACT BCN), a nutritional intervention based on The Mediterranean Diet, demonstrated a decreased prevalence of perinatal complications by 26%.

Assaf-Balut et al. showed that adherence to the Mediterranean Diet lowered the risk of gestational diabetes, premature birth, and urinary tract infections.

Multiple recent studies have described the health benefits of the Mediterranean Diet for mother and fetus. However, studies have not explored the extent to which pregnant women in Mediterranean areas could benefit from local food.

How The Study Exploring The Mediterranean Diet During Pregnancy Was Carried Out

How To Improve Your Nutritional Needs During Pregnancy

Further, the team enquired about each participant’s usual and frequent consumption of enlisted foods in the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). They computed energy and nutrient intake, i.e., total dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals intake, using the FFQ-derived food consumption data.

They included participants with energy intake in a predefined limit between <500 kcal/day and >3,500 kcal/day.

They compared dietary intake of magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc, sodium, phosphorous, potassium, and vitamins B1, B9, B12, A, C, D, and E with pregnancy requirements per the dietary reference intakes (DRIs) for the European and American DRI for pregnant women and Spanish general population, where intake levels above DRI implied a lower probability of inadequate micro and macronutrient intake.

Finally, the team used multivariate linear regression models to assess the variations in nutritional intake below the DRIs between study groups while controlling for confounding factors.

Results Of The Study Exploring Mediterranean Diet In Pregnancy

The final study sample had 1,356 pregnant women whose Mediterranean Diet adherence scores, FFQ scores, and total energy intake data were available.

In the group with low Mediterranean Diet adherence scores, the maternal age was lower, the number of Latin pregnant women was higher, and there were more smokers; in addition, these women had a higher waist circumference at enrolment and higher weight and BMI throughout gestation. 

Conversely, in the group with high Mediterranean Diet adherence scores, white females were more, and women had attained a higher education. They consumed more protein, fat, and fiber and fewer carbohydrates.

Among the low and high adherence groups, vitamin A and B12 intake were comparable, but vitamins B1, B9, C, D, and E varied.

Thus, among participants with an intake of macro and micronutrients below 2/3 DRIs, the authors noted an insufficient vitamin D, B9, iron, and calcium intake in 82.3%, 12.3%, 52.6%, and 13% of participants, respectively.

Likewise, the authors profiled these two groups for fatty acid intake and observed significant differences for all FA items.

The participants with higher adherence to the Mediterranean Diet had adequate EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), two FAs essential for fetal growth, especially of the brain and eyes.

Notably, EVOO in Mediterranean Diet supplemented mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs and PUFAs) as oleic, α-linolenic, and linoleic acids. 

Conclusions: Does The Mediterranean Diet Provide Nutritional Needs In Pregnancy?

According to the authors, this is the first study directly assessing whether adherence to the healthy Mediterranean Diet was associated with sufficient micronutrient (and overall nutrient) intake per DRIs specified for pregnancy.

They noted a direct association between nutritional status and adherence to a pregnancy-adapted Mediterranean Diet. 

Even though it is an easy-to-follow diet, some nutrient requirements are challenging to meet only with the Mediterranean Diet, including in high-income countries. Thus, many pregnant females in the study cohort were deficient in multiple micronutrients, especially vitamin D and B9, iron, and calcium.

However, high adherence to the Mediterranean Diet lowered the proportion of participants with micronutrient intake below DRIs (without supplementation) for iron, calcium, folic acid, magnesium, and vitamin C.

These associations remained significant even after adjusting for potential confounders, such as age, educational level, and pre-conceptional BMI, to name a few.

To conclude, pregnancy-adapted Mediterranean Diet should be promoted as a cost-effective public health strategy in one-to-one nutritional counselling given to expecting women.

With minimal or no financial cost, it could help avoid multiple pregnancy-related challenges, such as maternal weight gain, nutrient deficiencies, and other complications.

The Mediterranean Diet & Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) During Pregnancy: New Studies

recent study has shown that women who follow a healthy diet, including the Mediterranean Diet, throughout pregnancy are 50% less likely to have a preterm birth as a result.

The three specific diets included in the research include the alternative Mediterranean Diet, alternative healthy eating index and the diet of dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH).

The Mediterranean Diet is known for its emphasis on fresh vegetables, whole grains, nuts and healthy fats such as Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

The study was conducted by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Eunice Kennedy Shriver and was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 

It studied nearly 1,900 women who responded to questionnaires about their diets between weeks 8 and 13 of pregnancy. The participants were also asked to estimate what they ate in the previous three months.  This allowed their responses to be analysed according to three measures of healthy eating: the alternative healthy eating index (AHEI), the alternative Mediterranean diet (AMED) and the diet of dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH).

The findings showed that women with a high score of the alternative Mediterranean diet (AMED) or dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diets between weeks 24 and 29 of pregnancy had a 50% lower risk of having a preterm birth. While women with a high alternative healthy eating index AHEI score between weeks 16 and 22 of gestation had a 32% lower risk of gestational diabetes than women with a low score.

These findings led researchers to report that healthier dietary patterns during periconception and pregnancy characterized by higher AHEI, AMED or DASH scores were associated with lower risks of common pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and hypertension, pre-eclampsia, and premature babies.

For more information on the benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and The Mediterranean Diet During pregnancy see here.

Four Amazing Ways Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Improve Hair Health

Extra Virgin Olive Oil For Healthy Hair

How The Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Help Your Hair And Skin

Updated 10th November 2023

Extra Virgin Olive Oil For Healthy Hair
Extra Virgin Olive Oil For Healthy Hair

Summary:

  • New research says extra virgin olive oil can help you get fuller, healthier hair.
  • Extra virgin olive oil can condition and hydrate your hair due to presence of Omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Antioxidants in the best extra virgin olive oil can reduce harm to hair from environmental stressors.
  • Oleic acid in extra virgin olive oil can also keep skin smooth and hydrated.
  • Hydroxytyrosol and vitamin E in extra virgin olive oil can reduce skin ageing.

Contents:

Not only is extra virgin olive oil an excellent conditioner for hair, but it can also provide unbeatable hydration to keep your locks looking their best. So why not give your hair the love it deserves? Try incorporating extra virgin olive oil into your haircare routine and experience the benefits for yourself!

According to a recent article in Glam.com, there are four key ways that extra virgin olive oil can contribute to healthier looking and feeling hair.These are;

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Masks May Hydrate Dry Hair

Olive oil, with its abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, has the potential to lock in moisture and prevent your hair from drying out. While further scientific research is needed, insiders reveal that the emollients oleic acid and squalene found in olive oil have shown promising hydrating effects for both hair and skin.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil May Be Most Beneficial For Conditioning Thick Or Curly Hair

Olive oil can actually penetrate your hair shaft rather than just sitting on top. This makes it a fantastic moisturizer, especially for those with thick or curly hair. For an added dose of hydration, simply combine ¼ cup of olive oil with ½ of your daily conditioner. Apply the mixture to dry hair, taking care to avoid the roots. Work it into sections of your hair and let it soak for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Your hair will thank you!

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Protect Your Hair From Environmental Stressors

Did you know olive oil contains vitamins E and K, which function as antioxidants that protect your hair from oxidative stress? This stress can lead to the breakdown of cells and tissues, similar to oleic acid. By using olive oil on your hair, you can reduce free radicals that cause stress and hair fallout. Additionally, a study from 2009 found that oxidative stress can result in hair loss or premature aging of your hair. If you have thinning hair, applying olive oil can help prevent breakage caused by brushing or blow-drying.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Be Used As A Leave-In Conditioner

Give your thirsty hair the hydration it needs with a natural, no-fuss solution – olive oil. With its minimal odour and all-natural composition, olive oil is the perfect leave-in conditioner. Simply apply extra-virgin olive oil to damp hair to lock in moisture and keep your locks hydrated throughout the day. This is especially important during dry months when hair tends to become brittle.

Not only does olive oil nourish and moisturize, but it also prevents those pesky flyaways and static electricity that often come with winter. For those with dry hair, focusing the application of olive oil on the ends will work wonders.

Keep in mind, though, that you should avoid applying olive oil too close to your scalp to prevent a greasy appearance and potential dandruff. Those prone to acne should also steer clear of using EVOO as a leave-in conditioner, as it may cause breakouts along the hairline, chest, back, or neck area.

Lastly, remember not to heat-style your hair after applying extra virgin olive oil, as it has a smoke point of 350 to 410 degrees Fahrenheit. We all want our hair to look fabulous, but let’s avoid setting it on fire with curling or flat irons.

Olive Oil For Wellness And Beauty
Olive Oil For Skin, Hair And Beauty

Olive Oil For Skin, Hair And Beauty

Did you know that including a high-quality olive oil in your diet could be just as good for the appearance of your skin and hair as it is for your physical health? 

Olive Oil For Skin: The Science

Extra Virgin olive oil has been used a natural skin moisturizer and protector for centuries. The olive oil skin benefits are due to its high content of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that helps to keep skin smooth and hydrated. Virgin olive oil is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. In addition, olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe irritated skin. When applied to the skin, olive oil can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It can also be used to help treat dry scalp and dandruff. To reap the benefits of olive oil for skin, be sure to do the following:

  1. Choose an extra virgin olive oil that has been cold-pressed and has not been exposed to heat or light.
  2. Store the olive oil in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place.
  3. Apply the olive oil to your skin as needed. You can also add a few drops of olive oil to your bath water for a relaxing, soothing experience.

As well as being packed with health boosting antioxidants – called polyphenols – the best olive oils have been linked with a reduction in inflammation and reduced risk of many diseases from heart disease to cancer. Morocco Gold is one of the highest quality, cold pressed, single sourced extra virgin olive oils you can buy.  And, you can use it in your beauty routine too!

Olive Oil : The Natural Choice For Skin And Hair

Olive Oil Natural Choice For Skin And Hair
Olive Oil Natural Choice For Skin And Hair

Extra virgin olive oil is a natural choice for both skin and hair care. Extra virgin olive oil is non- comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. This makes it an ideal choice for those with acne-prone skin. Extra virgin olive oil can be used as a natural moisturizer for both skin and hair. The oil helps to lock in moisture, keeping hair hydrated and preventing split ends. It can also be used as a natural makeup remover, gently removing impurities without stripping away natural oils. For best results, look for extra virgin olive oil that is cold-pressed and has a dark green color. This indicates that the oil is of high quality and has been minimally processed.

The best extra virgin olive oils are packed with vitamins, minerals and natural fatty acids. It can even be used on sensitive skin. Olive oil is a potent natural ingredient in anti-aging skin care beauty products. Due to the high levels of polyphenols (or antioxidants) it contains, it prevents skin aging and occurrence of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin. In nutshell it can guard, nourish and rejuvenate your skin.

Olive oil contains vitamins E and A that helps in elongating your youth, hydrating skin and sustaining skin’s elasticity and softness. Moreover, it helps to regenerate skin cells. The list of beauty benefits of olive oil on skin, hair, face, nails and body is very long that makes it a superb natural beauty product for hair, face, skin, nails and body is so long that it makes a superb natural beauty product.

More About Chemicals In Extra Virgin Olive Oil Benefit Skin

Olive Oil For The Skin
Olive Oil For Skin & Hair Health

Is Olive Oil Good For Skin? The answer is a big yes! Olive oil’s chemical structure is most close to the skin’s natural oil as compared to that of any other natural oil, making olive oil good for skin.

Olive oil acts as an antioxidant, which is a substance that, as the name suggests, prevents oxidization. What this means is that it inhibits the production of free radicals which are chemicals that damage skin and can lead to some forms of cancers, especially skin cancer. 

One study showed that when olive oil was applied to the skin after exposure to harmful UV rays, the growth of tumors was significantly lower. While these trials are preliminary, they are definitely promising, and they are just one of many benefits of olive oil on the skin.

And, of course, if you’re going to be using olive oil to protect your skin, you want to use the best olive oil for skin which has to be Morocco Gold. Moroccan olive oil has been praised for its beauty and wellness properties since the time of Cleopatra and the Romans.

Can I Use Olive Oil In My Bath?

Do you know the beauty secret of the Italian actress Sophia Loren? – she loved taking olive oil baths. The simplest way to prepare an olive oil bath is just to add 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil into your bathtub. If you like, you may add more. This is a simple beauty trick to make your skin soft and smooth.

Another simple way to have olive oil on skin is that you just massage your body with extra virgin oil before taking bath. After you are through with your bath, pat dry your skin and wipe away the excess oil. You will feel your skin as incredibly soft and smooth, just like a baby-skin.

Olive Oil As A Body Lotion

Try olive oil as a body lotion. It’s all natural and wonderfully very effective. Apply it all over your body, while in the shower, right after you use the shower gel. You will feel your skin amazingly soft and smooth. This is another simple way to make your skin look perfect, healthy and tender to touch.

Olive oil is an excellent exfoliant, which may sound strange as it’s a product that is soft and gentle, not a harsh scrub that removes dead skin. But to use it as an exfoliant, combine extra virgin olive oil with a little natural sea salt to create a bit of grit. Small, finer amounts should be used on sensitive areas, while more and coarser grains may be used to exfoliate the rest of the body.

Olive Oil – A Natural Makeup Remover

It serves dual purpose. While gently removing makeup, it nourishes your skin as well. Just put a dab of olive oil on a cotton ball or pad, and gently wipe out all the makeup from your face. The best olive oil for your face is extra virgin, such as Morocco Gold. If you want to remove heavy makeup, first massage gently olive oil all over your face, and then wipe away all the makeup with a soft washcloth soaked with warm water. If needed, repeat it a couple of times and make it sure to do it gently – never rub your skin harshly. Rinse your face with warm water followed by a splash with cold water. Cold water will not only close your skin pores but stimulate the blood circulation as well.

This technique can also be applied to eye makeup, and it is surprisingly comfortable and easy, as olive oil is not an irritant and will not hurt your eyes or ducts. Simply apply it to a cotton ball and gently wipe down the eye area.

This works because olive oil is, naturally, oil soluble, rather than water soluble, and therefore can remove oily make ups, pigments, and colors from the face and neck.

Olive Oil For Sensitive Skin

It is a very good option for those having sensitive skin. If you are concerned about the oiliness it leaves behind–something that some people love and that other people dislike– that hitch can simply be resolved by washing your face with a face wash of your choice after you have removed makeup with olive oil. This will also make sure that there are no traces of makeup left behind on your face.

You can use olive oil as a gentle eye makeup remover too. It is so effective that even you can remove waterproof makeup with its help.

Olive Oil as a Face Mask

If you have dry skin or have otherwise benefited from a face mask, you may find that an olive oil face mask may be just the thing that opens up those pores and hydrates the face. To create an olive oil face mask, simply combine extra virgin olive oil with ingredients like honey, oats or egg whites to form a thick paste. Apply this to your skin and allow it to do its work. Keep it on as long as you would traditional mask, and enjoy the feeling that it gives to your skin both as it rests on your face, working its magic, as well as when you dry it off and feel that fresh and clean feeling.

Olive Oil Rejuvenates Skin

The prime reason behind beauty benefits of olive oil is that it is packed with healthy fats and phenolic antioxidant vitamin E accompanied by squalene and oleic acids. . The best olive oil for skin will work to get rid of free radicals and repair the damage done because of any skin’s exposure to the sun.

Olive Oil As Stretch Marks Home Remedy

Olive oil helps in regeneration of skin and increasing elasticity of the skin as well. Massage olive oil over the affected areas at least three times a week to improve the elasticity of the skin and its regenerative abilities, which will help heal the affected skin. This will not only prevent formation of new stretch marks, but will also work to reduce and lighten the existing ones slightly.

This not only works for stretch marks, but is also an effective treatment for the reduction of other scars as well. The vitamins and antioxidants may help scars fade and help the skin cells to regenerate.

Olive Oil To Prevent Premature Ageing:

Olive oil contains hydroxytyrosol and vitamin E that act on the skin to prevent skin cells degeneration, thus olive oil helps in preventing premature ageing. Further, the best olive oil for aging also has squalene acid that works to increase the elasticity of the skin, thus preventing sagging of the skin and making it firm, young and healthy.

Olive Oil As Sunscreen:

Mix equal amounts of olive oil and tea decoction (tea boiled in water and strained). Apply this mixture all over your body and face. Let it sit there for about an hour, and then rinse it off (don’t wash), so as to leave a residue on your skin. This will work as a natural sunscreen.

Benefits Of Olive Oil For Hair

Just as olive oil acts as an effective moisturizing agent on your skin, it has similar benefits on the hair too. Olive oil works wonders for dry damaged hair that can otherwise cause other hair problems, such as split ends and frizzy hair. To nurture those dry manes give your hair a hot olive oil hair massage. Make it sure that olive oil is not heated too much and too long, as it will lose its benefits.

If you’ve never used the best olive oil for your hair before, try just a tablespoon or two. If you have a long, full head of hair you may eventually want to work up to a quarter cup. 

Massage the oil deeply into your hair and scalp (it also works great to moisturize a dry scalp). For the most effective moisturizing, put your hair in a hair cap and let the oil sit in your hair for fifteen minutes before you begin to rinse it out.

Depending on how much oil you’ve used, you may need to shampoo, lather, and rinse your hair more than once.  

If you’re using olive oil on processed hair–that’s hair that’s been permed, bleached, or relaxed–wait 72 hours before using the oil. And if you’re using olive oil on bleached hair, test it in a small spot first to make sure that it doesn’t give a pristine bleached look a slightly yellow-green tinge.

How To Strengthen Nails With Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil massage is ideal for dry nails and cuticles. Forego the expensive hand and cuticle creams, instead massage a couple of olive oil drops onto the cuticles and around the nails. Its regular use will make your cuticles stay moist and nails shiny.

Alternatively, give a warm olive oil bath to your nails. It’s a great way to strengthen them. It will take just 5-10 minutes. Simply soak your nails in a slightly warm olive oil. Remember not to heat it too much, as it loses its properties at high temperature. Apply this olive oil nails treatment once or twice a week to strengthen your nails. With this treatment they will also look healthy and shiny.

Because olive oil is rich in Vitamin E, olive oil helps in the absorption of calcium, improves bone mineralization, and calcification, all of which help nails grow faster.

Source: https://naturalbeautytips.co/

A Mediterranean Diet Including Extra Virgin Olive Oil May Lower Breast Cancer Risk Says New Study

Mediterranean Diet And Reduced Breast Cancer Risk

New Study Find Individuals Who Closely Follow A Mediterranean Diet With Extra Virgin Olive Oil a Cornerstone Were 57% Less Likely To Have Breast Cancer

Updated November 6th 2023

Mediterranean Diet And Reduced Breast Cancer Risk
Mediterranean Diet And Reduced Breast Cancer Risk

Summary:

  • Extra virgin olive oil, also known as EVOO, is widely recognized as a staple of the Mediterranean diet. It is not only prized for its rich flavor and versatility in cooking, but also for its numerous health benefits. One key component of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) that contributes to its unique properties is polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants that can help protect against cancer. In particular, studies have shown that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) can help reduce the risk of breast cancer, a disease that affects millions of women worldwide. As such, it is important to choose the best olive oil and incorporate it into your diet to reap the full benefits of this superfood. By doing so, you can not only enjoy delicious meals but also support your body’s overall health and well-being.

Contents:

How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Helps Combat Breast Cancer

In a study carried out by Dr Javier Menendez and colleagues from the Catalan Institute of Oncology in Spain to investigated the effects of extra virgin olive on breast cancer cells grown in laboratory cultures, it was shown that the substances in extra virgin olive oil work in a similar way to the drug Herceptin by reducing the concentration of HER2 protein that helps HER2-positive breast cancer to grow.

Using a method called solid phase extraction, researchers extracted the polyphenols from commercially available extra virgin olive oil. These were then added to the growth medium for HER2-positive and HER2-negative breast cancers to see what effect they had on the tumour cells.

They found that the polyphenols from the extra virgin olive oil reduced the levels of HER2 protein and also increased tumour cell death. HER2 is a protein found on the surface of some cancer cells. This protein can bind to another molecule (known as human epidermal growth factor), which then encourages the growth and division of the tumour cells. Not all have the HER2 protein on their surface; it is estimated that one in five women with breast cancer will have HER2 receptors.

Several laboratory tests were then carried out to determine how fast the tumour cells were growing, their metabolic activity, whether the phenol caused cell death, whether the phenol had an effect on levels of HER2 protein and whether or not HER2 protein was activated in the presence of the phenol. The results from these tests were compared with those from tests performed on breast cancer cells that were not cultured with the phenols.

How The Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Get To Work

This study found that polyphenols extracted from extra virgin olive oil have an effect on HER2-positive breast cancer cells grown in culture in the laboratory. The researchers found that some single phenolic compounds (including hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol and others) and all the polyphenols (several phenols joined together) from extra virgin olive oil induced “strong tumouricidal effects” in breast cancer cells that had HER2 protein on their surface. The phenols also reduced the levels of HER2 protein and its activation.

The researchers concluded that the polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil have the ability to cause degradation of the HER2 protein on breast cancer cells. This may mean they can be used as a basis for the design of new HER2-targeting agents.

New Study Shows Benefits Of Mediterranean Diet With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

A recent case-controlled study conducted in Iran and published on Frontiers in Nutrition found a significant inverse association between the Mediterranean diet and breast cancer.

According to a summary in MindBodyGreen.com, this research shows individuals with the highest tertile of the Mediterranean diet score compared with those in the lowest tertile were 57% less likely to have breast cancer1. This relationship was most significant among postmenopausal women and the research claims the diet’s anti-inflammatory, estrogen-supportive, and antioxidant properties are most likely to be driving this impact.

It goes on to explain the significance of this study, saying:

Previous studies on the association between diet and breast cancer are mostly from Western populations where data from Middle East countries was not often included, hence why this study specifically set out to gather data on Iranian women, as the prevalence of breast cancer in Middle East countries is high2, yet the analytic data available is quite low. 

The classic Mediterranean diet focuses on eating real, whole foods and is modeled after countries lining the Mediterranean Sea. It centers fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, olive oil, herbs, and spices and limits processed foods, red meat, and added sugars.

For this study, researchers enrolled 350 women with new cases of breast cancer (including stages I-IV) and 700 women to represent a control group with equal socioeconomic and age status.

A nutritionist then evaluated dietary intake using a 106-item Willett-format semi-quantitative dish-based food frequency questionnaire (SQ-FFQ), which was specifically created and validated for the Iranian population to create scores based on how closely participants follow the Mediterranean diet.

They computed scores of the Mediterranean diet based on nine diet components, including servings of fish, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts; ratio of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) to saturated fatty acids (SFAs); and negative components, including grains, dairy, meats (including poultry and red meat) and processed meat. They then added those scores together to get the total Mediterranean diet value. 

Our findings were aligned with the findings from a case-control study conducted by Turati et al. in Switzerland in which adherence to the Mediterranean diet was inversely associated with the risk of breast cancer3.

MindBodyGreen

Regional studies like these are important, as dietary patterns vary greatly from country to country. 

Why Is The Mediterranean Diet So Healthy?

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The Mediterranean Diet has been associated with so many potential health benefits including improved cardiovascular function, brain health and reduced inflammation. While the exact science behind why it may contribute to possible prevention of breast cancer are unclear, researchers note this protective effect may be due to the following:

More studies are needed to confirm these findings across different populations and dive deeper into what, exactly, makes this diet potentially cancer-protective.

The Mediterranean Diet has been praised as one of the healthiest diets in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. This way of eating, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, has been associated with a plethora of health benefits. One reason for this is that the Mediterranean Diet is low in processed foods and added sugars, which are linked to several negative health outcomes. Additionally, this diet is high in nutrients that are important for overall health, such as fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Finally, the Mediterranean Diet promotes a well-balanced and varied approach to eating, which can help people maintain a healthy weight, reduce inflammation, and lower their risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

MindBodyGreen expressly noted that this research doesn’t mean following the Mediterranean diet will prevent breast cancer point blank. However, it does further support the power of eating whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats for overall health.

For more tips on how to get started on the Mediterranean Diet and some healthy recipe ideas, pop over to Morocco Gold here.

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