Health Category: Overview

Demonstrating the evidence-based health benefits of extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold

Polyphenols – Extra Virgin Olive Oil’s Powerful Antioxidant

Polyphenols are potent antioxidants that neutralise free radicals and help protect cells from damage. Free radicals are unstable compounds thought to play a role in more than 60 different health conditions, including heart disease and atherosclerosis, as well as ageing.

Several polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil, including hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, and luteolin, have shown beneficial effects such as avoiding unhealthy blood clotting by keeping blood platelets in check. These properties contribute to the anti inflammatory properties that make olive oil such a powerful ally in protecting long-term health.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil and the Cardiovascular System

Lowering the risk of cardiovascular problems has been the focus of several recent studies on extra virgin olive oil. Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for many types of cardiovascular disease, and olive oil’s well-documented anti inflammatory properties play a central role.

Inflammation in the blood vessels compromises circulation and overall health. Daily intake of extra virgin olive oil – even as little as one tablespoon – reduces inflammatory processes within the blood vessels, lowering the risk of conditions such as atherosclerosis.

Additional health benefits of extra virgin olive oil for the cardiovascular system include:

• Reduced risk of unwanted blood clots
• Lower LDL cholesterol levels and improved lipid profiles
• Better protection of cholesterol from oxidation, reducing damage known as lipid peroxidation

These combined effects contribute to better cardiovascular health and reduced risk factors for heart disease.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And The Digestive System

“All disease begins in the gut.”

Hippocrates, father of modern medicine

Digestive health problems are common, yet often hidden due to stigma. People with digestive disease may endure pain, fatigue, and constant bowel issues before seeking medical help. Severe cases can result in missed workdays, emergency interventions, and long-term prescriptions.

Including extra virgin olive oil as part of a balanced diet has shown potential health benefits for the digestive system, thanks to its natural anti inflammatory properties and the presence of healthy fats like monounsaturated fatty acids.

How Does Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help the Digestive System?

We all know that extra virgin olive oil is one of the healthiest oil choices for cooking and eating. It is high in fat, but most of it is heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, making it far superior to refined oils like butter or seed oils. Choosing olive oil over less healthy fats supports heart health, helps lower cholesterol, and may also benefit digestion.

As soon as you consume extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold, it has positive effects all along the digestive system. Used since ancient times for assorted digestive disorders, its beneficial properties are now supported by scientific research and modern nutritional studies.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & the Stomach

Eating quickly or consuming high-fat foods can cause gastric reflux or heartburn. A study published in Grasas y Aceites found that extra virgin olive oil may reduce gastric acid secretion. By slowing the release of stomach contents into the duodenum, olive oil helps you feel fuller for longer, aids nutrient absorption, and contributes to better digestion.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & the Hepatic-Biliary System

One of the most important health benefits of extra virgin olive oil is its effect on bile flow. Olive oil acts as a cholagogue, ensuring optimal bile drainage, and as a cholecystokinetic, stimulating contraction of the gall bladder. This helps prevent bile duct issues and supports the synthesis of bile salts in the liver. By aiding lipid digestion and preventing gallstones, olive oil demonstrates clear potential health benefits for long-term digestive health.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & the Pancreas

Your pancreas plays a key role in hormone production and enzyme release for digestion. Extra virgin olive oil is particularly beneficial here, as it requires the pancreas to produce fewer enzymes compared with other oils. This reduces strain on the organ and supports long-term function.

The Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health reported that olive oil consumption may even reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer. For patients with pancreatic conditions such as chronic pancreatitis or malabsorption syndromes, virgin olive oil can be an important part of a balanced diet.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & the Intestines

Replacing less healthy oils with extra virgin olive oil improves intestinal efficiency and enhances absorption of vitamins and minerals. The polyphenols in olive oil, such as oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, and ligstroside, may also help maintain gut health by balancing bacteria and inhibiting harmful strains like Helicobacter pylori, which causes stomach ulcers.

Some polyphenols, including secoiridoids, are under study for their role in reducing cancer risk in the digestive tract. This makes olive oil a powerful component of diets aimed at reduced risk of digestive disease.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Boost Beneficial Gut Bacteria

Looking after gut microbes is essential for digestion and immune defence. Diets rich in plant polyphenols, whole grains, oily fish, and extra virgin olive oil – such as the Mediterranean diet – are associated with higher levels of beneficial, anti-inflammatory bacteria in the gut. This demonstrates the beneficial effects of including olive oil as a core part of your daily meals.

How Does Extra Virgin Olive Oil Aid Blood Pressure?

Polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil have shown the ability to lower blood pressure and support the immune system. Their antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties help reduce reactive oxygen species in the body, lowering inflammation and contributing to overall cardiovascular health.

Polyphenol Oleuropein

One of the key polyphenols in Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil is oleuropein. Studies show it helps prevent LDL cholesterol from oxidising and sticking to arterial walls, reducing a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This contributes to the long-term health benefits of including extra virgin olive oil in a heart healthy diet.

Oleuropein is a natural phenolic compound found in olive leaves and green olives, including the skin and flesh, from which olive oil is derived. It is responsible for the distinctive bitter taste in extra virgin olive oil.

Health Benefits Of Oleuropein

The health benefits of oleuropein include antioxidant and natural anti inflammatory properties, reduced blood glucose levels, and free radical removal. Oleuropein has also been linked to cardioprotective and neuroprotective activity.

Belonging to a group of compounds called secoiridoids, oleuropein has shown activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, moulds, and even parasites. Studies show that oral intake of oleuropein reduces blood vessel formation, demonstrating strong anti-angiogenic properties. In addition, phenolic compounds in virgin olive oil, such as oleuropein and protocatechuic acid, help protect against LDL oxidation. Extracts from olive leaves and olive fruit containing oleuropein may also protect insulin-producing cells from damage caused by cytokines, helping to reduce insulin resistance.

Extra Virgin Olive oil And Hypertension: Clinical Trials

One of the earliest randomized controlled trials assessing the antihypertensive effect of extra virgin olive oil dates back to the late 1980s. In this study, a diet enriched in olive oil was compared to a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet in 47 healthy subjects. After 36 days, both systolic and diastolic blood pressure were significantly reduced, suggesting that dietary intake of olive oil could help regulate blood pressure.

Follow-up research confirmed these findings in type 2 diabetic patients, who experienced even stronger antihypertensive effects from a diet enriched with extra virgin olive oil compared to one high in carbohydrates.

Further Studies on Olive Oil and Blood Pressure

While diets high in saturated fat are associated with higher blood pressure, research suggests that monounsaturated fatty acids may have the opposite effect. A study from the University of Naples compared monounsaturated fats from extra virgin olive oil with polyunsaturated fatty acids from sunflower oil in 23 participants.

Participants consuming extra virgin olive oil required fewer antihypertensive medications, with usage cut in half within four months. In contrast, sunflower oil had only mild effects. Cholesterol and triglyceride levels were also slightly lower in the olive oil group. Importantly, olive oil contains about 5 mg of antioxidant polyphenols per 10 g – absent in sunflower oil – which further contributes to its potential health benefits for cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Help Fight Inflammatory Diseases

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic it can contribute to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. Chronic inflammation is also linked to heart disease, obesity, poor sleep quality, and long-term pain.

Because of its unique anti inflammatory properties, extra virgin olive oil can help reduce inflammation and protect against damage caused by oxidative stress. Regular inclusion in a healthy diet lowers the risk of inflammation-mediated conditions and supports overall general health.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Part of an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

To reduce inflammation, focus on a balanced diet with foods typical of the Mediterranean diet, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, oily fish, and extra virgin olive oil. This way of eating delivers long-term health effects, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases and improvements in mood and wellbeing.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Phenols and polyphenols are the core substances that give olive oil its anti inflammatory properties. Researchers have shown that even one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil per day lowers inflammatory signalling molecules such as IL-6 and TNF-alpha.

In Mediterranean countries, daily olive oil consumption has been linked with reduced C-reactive protein (CRP), lower levels of inflammatory enzymes, and decreased oxidative stress markers. Studies suggest that two tablespoons per day of extra virgin olive oil provides strong and consistent anti-inflammatory benefits.

Phenols and polyphenols are the core substances that give olive oil its anti inflammatory properties. Researchers have shown that even one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil per day lowers inflammatory signalling molecules such as IL-6 and TNF-alpha.

In Mediterranean countries, daily olive oil consumption has been linked with reduced C-reactive protein (CRP), lower levels of inflammatory enzymes, and decreased oxidative stress markers. Studies suggest that two tablespoons per day of extra virgin olive oil provides strong and consistent anti-inflammatory benefits.

The Anti-inflammatory Effect of Polyphenol Oleuropein Aglycone (OA)

Oleuropein aglycone is a glycosylated secoiridoid, a type of bitter phenolic compound found in green olive skin, flesh, seeds, and leaves. The term oleuropein is derived from the botanical name of the olive tree, Olea Europaea.

Oleuropein aglycone is one of the main polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil. It has gained global attention within the scientific and medical communities due to its biological properties, including activity against Alzheimer’s disease, breast cancer, hyperglycaemia, and its strong anti inflammatory properties.

OA is formed through the de-glycosylation of oleuropein during olive maturation and is released during pressing. Studies suggest it helps reduce inflammation by inhibiting COX enzymes, thereby lowering the production of prostanoids, prostaglandins, and thromboxanes — all key contributors to inflammation.

Inflammation is a complex immune response to pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants, and enables during infection or injury. Pain from inflammation is something most people experience at some point in their lives and a common daily occurrence for many people with arthritis OA plays an anti- inflammatory role during chronic inflammation and improves tissue damage associated with collagen-induced arthritis.

In addition, OA may be responsible for inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. COX is an enzyme that forms prostanoids, prostaglandins, prostacyclins, and thromboxanes, which are all contributors to the inflammatory response. Therefore, OA can play an effective role in anti-inflammatory activities. 

Anti-inflammatory Polyphenol Oleocanthal

Oleocanthal, also known as p-HPEA-EDA, is another polyphenol in virgin olive oil. Responsible for the peppery sensation at the back of the throat when tasting fresh oil, oleocanthal has anti inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen, a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

This makes extra virgin olive oil a natural source of compounds with pharmacological activity, supporting its reputation as liquid gold in the context of health benefits of extra virgin olive oil.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Helps Control Healthy Cholesterol

High cholesterol occurs when too much fatty substance builds up in the blood. While diet, inactivity, smoking, and alcohol are common causes, it can also run in families. Excess cholesterol can block blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart disease.

LDL and HDL Cholesterol

Cholesterol travels through the blood on proteins called lipoproteins:

• LDL (low density lipoprotein): “bad” cholesterol. High levels raise your risk of heart disease and stroke.
• HDL (high density lipoprotein): “good” cholesterol. It absorbs cholesterol and carries it back to the liver for removal. High levels reduce your risk.

The Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil on Cholesterol: A Study

Research led by Montserrat Fitó, Ph.D., published in the American Heart Association’s Circulation, explored whether a Mediterranean diet enriched with extra virgin olive oil or nuts improved the beneficial effects of HDL.

The study included 296 participants at high risk of heart disease. Three diets were tested over one year:

• Mediterranean diet with ~4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil daily.
• Mediterranean diet with nuts.
• A healthful “control” diet with less red meat, processed foods, and high-fat dairy.

Blood tests showed:

• LDL (“bad”) cholesterol decreased only in the control diet group.
• Both Mediterranean diets improved HDL function, with the most pronounced effect in the olive oil group.

Benefits included:

• Improved reverse cholesterol transport (removing cholesterol from arterial plaque).
• Greater antioxidant protection, counteracting LDL oxidation.
• Increased vasodilation, keeping blood vessels open and blood flowing.

Although the control diet contained fruits and vegetables, it reduced HDL’s anti-inflammatory capacity, a negative effect not seen in the Mediterranean diets. This reinforces that a Mediterranean diet enriched with extra virgin olive oil supports cardiovascular health and reduces risk factors for disease.

How Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help Improve Blood Sugar Levels?

Tyrosol, a key polyphenol in Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil, has powerful antioxidant activity. Along with hydroxytyrosol, it is one of the most abundant polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil, contributing to the broad range of health benefits.

Studies show that tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol can protect cells from oxidative injury, scavenge free radicals, and activate the body’s own antioxidant systems. In animal models, these compounds helped reduce blood sugar and support better glycaemic control, showing promise for reducing insulin resistance and lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Diabetes: A Study

In a study at Sapienza University in Rome, researchers examined the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil within a traditional Mediterranean diet for people with diabetes.

This small study involved 25 participants who ate a typical Mediterranean lunch of fruits, vegetables, grains, and fish on two occasions. For the first meal, they added 10 g of extra virgin olive oil; for the second, 10 g of corn oil. After each meal, blood sugar levels were tested. The rise in blood glucose was much smaller after the meal with extra virgin olive oil than after the meal with corn oil.

“Lowering blood glucose and cholesterol may be useful to reduce the negative effects of glucose and cholesterol on the cardiovascular system,” said Francesco Violo, lead author.

The findings aligned with previous work linking extra virgin olive oil with higher insulin levels and benefits for people with type 2 diabetes. More surprising were the reduced levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, after the olive oil meal.

The researchers stressed that extra virgin olive oil should be consumed within a balanced diet to see these potential health benefits. 

How Does Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help To Keep Bones Healthy?

Adherence to a Mediterranean diet with extra virgin olive oil at its heart was associated with decreased fracture incidence in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study, involving 188,795 subjects followed for nine years. The Mediterranean diet including extra virgin olive oil was also associated with increased calcium absorption and retention and a decrease in urinary calcium excretion in male adolescents.

Olives and extra virgin olive oil are key components of the Mediterranean diet. A Mediterranean diet enriched with olive oil has been linked with increased markers of bone formation in elderly men.

Mice fed with olive oil showed higher apparent calcium absorption and calcium balance, but lower serum calcium, phosphate, and magnesium compared with groups fed other lipids. This may relate to the high phenolic content of extra virgin olive oil. Phenolic compounds including tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, and oleuropein exert prominent antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties and are potential candidates for osteoporosis prevention.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Bone Fractures: A Study

A recent study followed 870 participants for seven years to see if extra virgin olive oil intake related to fracture numbers. Participants were grouped into thirds by intake:

Lowest third: ~38 g per day (about 3 tablespoons)
Middle third: ~48 g per day
Highest third: ~57 g per day

Those in the highest intake group reported 51% fewer fractures than those in the lowest group. While intakes were high, the results indicate a link between reduced fracture risk and incorporating extra virgin olive oil into an ordinary meal plan. Numerous animal studies also show increased bone formation with extra virgin olive oil, tied specifically to phenols such as tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Help Combat Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a joint condition featuring breakdown and loss of cartilage. It occurs more frequently with age and often affects the hands, feet, spine, and weight-bearing joints such as hips and knees. It can be primary (no known cause) or secondary.

Polyphenol Ligstroside-Aglycone (LA) In Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Its Role In Combating Osteoarthritis

This polyphenol, synonymous with p-HPEA-elenolic acid, is part of the Tyrosol family and has the chemical formula C19H22O7.

Evidence on LA bioactivity is limited, yet it behaves as an antioxidant and shows anti inflammatory properties by down-regulating NF-κB, a factor involved in osteoarthritis and chronic inflammation. LA may also induce a caloric restriction-like state via sirtuins, proteins that help regulate cellular balance.

A Study Of Ligstroside-Aglycone In Treatment Of Osteoarthritis

Researchers at the Faculty of Pharmacy Seville and the Biomedical Research Institute Coruna examined LA and related compounds as anti-inflammatory agents for OA. They tested oleocanthal (OLC), ligstroside aglycone (LA), an acetylated LA (A-LA), and two marine polyunsaturated fatty acids (EPA and DHA).

Results: Acetylated ligstroside showed the most promising effect. It reduced expression of pro-inflammatory genes (iNOS, MMP13, IL1B), lowered nitric oxide levels from cartilage explants, and reduced proteoglycan loss in human osteoarthritic cartilage. These findings support a role for polyphenols in OA therapy.

Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil Have Anti-bacterial Properties

Researchers at the National Research Council’s Institute of Food Sciences and the University of Salerno showed that polyphenols from three olive oil varieties inhibited several bacterial strains at low concentrations, confirming broad antibacterial capacity.

All three extracts were effective against Escherichia coli, a cause of urinary tract infections, and against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogen known for biofilm formation. Biofilms are dense microbial communities that can protect pathogens and complicate treatment, especially on medical devices used in surgery.

“These extracts showed notable activity against pathogenic species responsible for biofilms. This could guide complementary studies to formulate natural-origin drugs with optimal polyphenol mixtures for antibacterial efficacy,” said Filomena Nazzaro, senior scientist at the Institute of Food Sciences, Italy.

Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Help Combat Cancer

Growing evidence documents anti-cancer health benefits of extra virgin olive oil. Early work used animal or cell models; more recent studies in people including olive oil in daily meals have found encouraging outcomes.

Intakes as low as 1–2 tablespoons per day have been associated with decreased cancer risk for breast, respiratory tract, and digestive tract cancers. In the digestive tract, reduced risk appears more likely in the upper tract.

Mechanisms under investigation include the role of secoiridoids such as oleuropein and decarboxylmethyl oleuropein, which may shift metabolic pathways toward better stress resistance. Higher phenolic content in extra virgin olive oil has been linked to a decreased ability of cancer cells to regenerate. Two phenols—tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol—may block matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MM-2), a step required for angiogenesis, limiting oxygen supply to tumours.

Investigating Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Their Impact On Cancer

Dr Limor Goren and Dr David Foster explored the anti-cancer effects of oleocanthal, a phenolic compound in extra virgin olive oil that causes the peppery sensation at the back of the throat.

Their work showed oleocanthal can kill human cancer cells while sparing normal cells, likely by triggering lysosomal membrane permeabilisation, which releases digestive enzymes inside cancer cells and leads to cell death. Similar results were seen when using olive oil-enriched culture media. Oils with higher oleocanthal content were most effective in vitro; oils with average content reduced viability to a lesser extent; oils with no oleocanthal had no effect.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Breast Cancer

Dr Javier Menendez and colleagues at the Catalan Institute of Oncology investigated extra virgin olive oil on breast cancer cells. Using solid-phase extraction, they isolated polyphenols from commercially available oils and tested them on HER2-positive and HER2-negative cell lines.

They found that polyphenols from extra virgin olive oil reduced HER2 protein levels and increased tumour cell death in HER2-positive cells. Single compounds, including hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol, also produced strong tumouricidal effects and reduced HER2 activation. The authors concluded that polyphenols from extra virgin olive oil may provide a basis for new HER2-targeting agents.

Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil Deserves a Place in Your Healthy Diet

Including extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold in your daily meals is a simple way to support long-term health. From protecting your heart and lowering blood pressure to improving bone strength and reducing cancer risk, its unique polyphenols deliver wide-ranging benefits. As part of a Mediterranean diet and a balanced lifestyle, it remains one of the most effective and natural choices for protecting your wellbeing.

Explore The Benefits of Olive Oil On World Obesity Day

^{Updated July 8th 2025}

Contents

1. Explore the Benefits of Olive Oil on World Obesity Day
2. Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Tackling Obesity
3. How Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help Weight Loss?
4. Best Olive Oil For Weightloss
5. The Mediterranean Diet and Olive Oil Intake
6. The Alarming Truth about Obesity And Wellness
7. Discover The Health Benefits Of Morocco Gold
8. UK Obesity Levels
9. Vegetables And Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A Perfect Match For Weightloss
10. EVOO and Obesity Research
11. Ways To Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil For Weight Loss
12. Olive Oil Loved by Health Professionals
13. Lose Weight and Improve Body Fat with Olive Oil
14. Start Your Wellness Plan with Morocco Gold

Explore the Benefits of Olive Oil on World Obesity Day

A Healthy Diet for World Obesity Day. This year, World Obesity Day aims to tackle preconceptions about obesity and open a conversation about taking action for better health. And what better place to start than replacing saturated fats with a healthy source of fat, such as extra virgin olive oil, for weight loss?

One crucial fact raised by the World Health Organisation is that obesity is preventable. There is also a wealth of scientific evidence to support the role of olive oil in weight loss, particularly when combined with a healthy diet.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Tackling Obesity

Not only is extra virgin olive oil packed with health benefits, but it can also help contribute to weight management. Studies have found that olive oil supports weight loss by promoting satiety, assisting people to feel full faster and for longer periods. This naturally supports weight loss by reducing the urge to snack on unhealthy foods.

Furthermore, extra virgin olive oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids, which have been associated with improved heart health, diet quality, and even brain health. So this World Obesity Day, consider drinking olive oil daily as part of a structured plan to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

How Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help Weight Loss?

We all know that EVOO is great for drizzling over salads and creating that perfect bruschetta. It is, unquestionably the most flavor-some and aromatic of all the olive oils. It is also incredibly healthy. EVOO has been widely researched and the health benefits are evidence based including:

• EVOO reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases
• EVOO has beneficial effects on ulcers and gastritis
• EVOO maintains the digestive tract in good health
• EVOO helps to reduce blood pressure
• EVOO controls healthy cholesterol levels
• EVOO eases or prevents diabetes
• EVOO lessens the severity of osteoporosis

Best Olive Oil For Weightloss

Is olive oil effective for weight loss? Research says yes. Drinking olive oil daily, ideally about three tablespoons, supports metabolic health. Flynn’s work, particularly with the treatment group in her studies, showed consistent improvements over those following a control diet.

Flynn also notes that using olive oil daily improves satiety and lowers body weight over time. Replacing other fats like soybean oil or butter with monounsaturated fats like EVOO leads to better outcomes.

The Mediterranean Diet For Weightloss And Wellness

The Mediterranean diet, especially one that includes olive oil in weight loss planning, emphasises vegetables, whole grains, legumes, lean protein, and unsaturated fatty acids. The Nurses’ Health Study II showed that this dietary pattern supports healthy weight maintenance and overall longevity.

Incorporate olive oil generously, whether it’s a lunchtime salad or an egg and avocado dish. It’s not just flavourful, it has positive effects on everything from cholesterol to cancer prevention.

Tips to Add Olive Oil to Your Diet

Wondering how much olive oil to take? Three tablespoons is the golden amount for most studies. You can:

• Add to a salad dressing
• Use in an avocado dish
• Take a shot of olive oil on an empty stomach
• Add to smoothies
• Pair with lemon juice for detox

Avoid drinking excessive amounts, though. Olive oil is calorie-dense, and overuse could promote rather than prevent weight gain.

The Alarming Truth about Obesity And Wellness

Here are some truly frightening statistics about global obesity from the World Health Organisation:

• Worldwide obesity has nearly tripled since 1975.
• In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults, 18 years and older, were overweight. Of these over 650 million were obese.
• 39% of adults aged 18 years and over were overweight in 2016, and 13% were obese.
• Most of the world’s population live in countries where overweight and obesity kills more people than underweight.
• 39 million children under the age of 5 were overweight or obese in 2020.
• Over 340 million children and adolescents aged 5-19 were overweight or obese in 2016.
• Obesity is preventable.

Obesity is a threat to wellness because it increases the risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Although obesity can be caused by factors such as genes and hormonal imbalances, in most cases it is the result of an unhealthy diet and lifestyle. The good news is that obesity is preventable and treatable with lifestyle changes such as eating healthy foods and exercising regularly.

Obesity is associated with number of co-morbid diseases and conditions that require treatment. Obesity can harm people’s prospects in life, their self-esteem and their underlying mental health. Research published in the BMJ found that people who are obese or overweight are less likely to exercise in public as they feel discriminated against because of their weight.

The rising rates of obesity have resulted in significant increases in direct medical spending for obese and overweight individuals.

The individual costs associated with being obese are: lost wages, presenteeism and absenteeism, and higher costs associated with the purchase of personal goods. While individuals bear the full burden of some costs, such as the value of lost life or lost wages, employers and employees share the burden for many other costs such as direct medical costs, short-term disability, and productivity losses.

In the USA, the government pays a significant portion of costs associated with obesity for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. Estimates of the medical cost of adult obesity in the United States range from $147 billion to nearly $210 billion per year. The majority of the spending is generated from treating obesity-related diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, among others. Obesity is responsible for $61.8 billion in Medicare and Medicaid spending. In the absence of obesity, Medicare and Medicaid spending would be around 8.5 percent and 11.8 percent lower, respectively.

Discover The Health Benefits Of Morocco Gold

If obesity rates continue on their current track, medical costs associated with obesity are estimated to increase by $48 – $66 billion per year in the U.S., and the loss of economic productivity could be as high as $580 billion annually by 2030.

UK Obesity Levels

In the UK nearly two-thirds of adults (63%) were classed as being overweight (a body mass index of over 25) or obese (a BMI of over 30) in 2015. The prevalence of obesity is similar among men and women, but men are more likely to be overweight.

It is estimated that obesity is responsible for more than 30,000 deaths each year. On average, obesity deprives an individual of an extra 9 years of life, preventing many individuals from reaching retirement age. In the future, obesity or weightloss is likely to overtake tobacco smoking as the biggest cause of preventable death.

Failing to address the challenge posed by the obesity epidemic will place an even greater burden on NHS resources. It is estimated that the NHS spent £6.1 billion on overweight and obesity-related ill-health in 2014 to 2015. More broadly, obesity has a serious impact on economic development. The overall cost of obesity to wider society is estimated at £27 billion. The UK-wide NHS costs attributable to overweight and obesity are projected to reach £9.7 billion by 2050, with wider costs to society estimated to reach £49.9 billion per year.

Annual spend on the treatment of obesity and diabetes is greater than the amount spent on the police, the fire service and the judicial system combined.

EVOO and Obesity Research

The Nurses Health Study and follow-ups, such as Flynn’s control group vs treatment group trials, continue to highlight the effectiveness of olive oil and weight loss interventions. Women who followed an unrestricted caloric Mediterranean diet rich in EVOO achieved better fat loss than those on low-fat plans.

In another study, cooking vegetables in EVOO improved nutrient absorption and diet quality. Better taste also meant subjects were likelier to stick to their nutrition plans.

“This way of eating essentially takes the calories you’d normally be consuming with meat and gives them to vegetables and EVOO,”

Dr Mary Flynn

Flynn proved the success of a diet that’s high in healthy fats in 2010 with a study of 44 women over 50 who’d become overweight during breast cancer treatment. Each woman trialled two eight-week diets. Flynn’s EVOO-based diet and a low-fat food plan as recommended by the US National Cancer Institute. Both diets were made up of 1500 calories a day.

After the 16 weeks, the average weight loss was 7kg, however, the women lost twice as much on the EVOO diet as the low-fat diet. They also showed improved breast cancer biomarkers, lower triglycerides and higher levels of the “good” HDL cholesterol. In addition, when the women were asked to choose the diet they preferred all but one chose the EVOO diet. They found the food more appetising, accessible and affordable.

While the benefits of being a healthy weight are particularly important to women who’ve had breast cancer (being overweight increases the risk of the cancer recurring), being overweight or obese also increases the risk of cancer and other illnesses generally. “I recommend this EVOO diet to everyone,” says Flynn.

Veg And Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A Perfect Match For Weightloss

Flynn says the key to the success of the EVOO diet is to cook your vegetables in olive oil. There are two main reasons for this. The first is that carotenoids. A powerful antioxidants that give orange, yellow and red veg their colour and are also found in abundance in leafy greens. They need fat to be absorbed. She also believes the nutrients in cruciferous veg such as broccoli and cabbage are better absorbed with oil, but that’s still yet to be conclusively proven. The second reason is arguably more important: Vegies taste better with EVOO, so people are likely to eat more.

“My rule of thumb is one tablespoon of EVOO to one cup of veg,” Flynn says, adding that sautéing them or roasting are tasty options, plus these methods maintain much of their nutrient value. “Eating veg like this fills you up and stops you being hungry.” An added bonus, she says, is fibre from the veg also improves bowel regularity.

For anyone daunted by a diet of less meat and three cups daily of vegetables, Flynn advises: “Start by having three dinners a week where you combine vegetables, EVOO and some starch (potatoes or wholegrain pasta or rice). Then see if you can add some lunches in as well. The more you take in, the more benefit you’ll get.”

Source: bodyandsoul.com.au

Ways To Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil For Weight Loss

Extra virgin olive oil is the perfect companion for all kinds of food and you can add it in any culinary preparation. But if you are interested in losing a few extra kilos, here are some ways to use extra virgin olive oil to lose weight.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil With Lemon
One way to use extra virgin olive oil to lose weight is to combine it with lemon. One of the most powerful remedies that exist to purify and eliminate toxins from your body. Lemon contains, in addition to vitamin C, hesperidin. A flavonoid that contributes to improve the function of lymphatic drainage and, with it, the retention of liquids. Take some extra virgin olive oil with half a lemon at breakfast and you will see how your figure is improving little by little.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil With Ginger
Ginger is a root that, when ingested, produces a thermogenic effect in the body. Ginger is able to activate your nervous system and, as a consequence, activate all processes that produce energy (which also supplies fat). That is, ginger is a natural fat burner. Another excellent way to use extra virgin olive oil for weight loss. Add some ginger and extra virgin olive oil to dress your salads.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil With Cucumber
Good weather is synonymous with lots of fruit and vegetables. And among them are the cucumbers. Delicious and very refreshing. A food that helps you lose those extra pounds. Its high-water content makes it have a low amount of calories. In addition, cucumber contains a lot of fibre that helps eliminate toxins from the body. Add extra virgin olive oil to a couple of cucumbers and you will get a great starter that will help you lose weight.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil With Cayenne Pepper
Although it may not seem like it, cayenne pepper is a digestive stimulant. This spice stimulates the production of juices and gastric enzymes that digest the food you eat, eliminating the toxins that are generated in your body. It also speeds up metabolism and fat burning. A trick to add some cayenne pepper to a daily ‘shot’ of extra virgin olive oil.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil In Smoothies
Detoxifying green shakes to reduce weight have become fashionable. And with good reason. They are a time bomb against the body’s fat and toxins. Full of vitamins, minerals, fibre and other nutrients that help keep your weight at bay. But you can enhance its power much more, and especially the flavour of these shakes, adding a little extra virgin olive oil.

Olive Oil Loved by Health Professionals

EVOO is olive oil loved by sports nutritionists and dietitians alike. Its rich oleic acid content, a standout among fatty acids, makes it ideal for long-term use.

And it’s not just good for weight, olive oil improves hair health, supports mental focus, and helps with recovery. Even olive oil massages are being explored for their potential circulatory benefits.

Lose Weight and Improve Body Fat with Olive Oil

The ability of EVOO to reduce body fat while supporting overall health has made it a favourite among health professionals. As a rich source of dietary fat, EVOO contains oleic acid and vitamin E, both known for improving skin and hair health while supporting cardiovascular health.

When you consume EVOO regularly, your body benefits from monounsaturated fats, which not only help you lose weight but also help you maintain a healthy body weight over time. Experts recommend you incorporate olive oil into everyday meals, especially when replacing processed oils and saturated fats.

For those wondering how much olive oil to consume, start with 2–3 tablespoons daily. Whether used as a finishing oil or in cooking, olive oil daily offers a delicious, practical way to enhance your health and manage your weight.

Start Your Wellness Plan with Morocco Gold

Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil is a smart choice if you’re looking to lose weight, protect your heart health, or simply improve your overall dietary fat intake. Replace control diet staples with this premium oil and enjoy better flavour, texture, and health.

The evidence is clear: consume EVOO, add olive oil wisely, and enjoy its many health-promoting properties.

Breakfast With Olive Oil Gives Your Brain The Best Start

^{Updated January 27th 2025}

Starting your day with the right foods can do wonders for your body and mind. For those prioritizing brain health, breakfast isn’t just the most important meal of the day—it’s an opportunity to fuel your brain with the nutrients it needs to function at its best. One simple addition to your morning routine can make a significant difference—extra virgin olive oil.

Renowned for its heart-friendly benefits, this golden elixir is also a secret weapon for boosting brain health. Packed with polyphenols, including the potent anti-inflammatory compound oleocanthal, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) deserves a spot on every breakfast plate.

With winter mornings getting dark and cold, it’s tempting to skip breakfast for an extra few minutes in bed but the health benefits of including extra virgin olive oil in your breakfast are remarkable.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil At Breakfast Is A Great Way To Boost Brain Health

Did you know, for example, that extra virgin olive oil can help to protect the brain from damage?  This is largely due to the oleocanthal in olive oil which has anti-inflammatory properties that protect the brain from inflammation. The polyphenols in olive oil also help to reduce oxidative stress and improve blood flow to the brain. The Mediterranean diet is rich in olive oil, as well as healthy fats, vegetables, and whole grains. In addition to its brain-boosting benefits, extra virgin olive oil also has a host of other health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer. So next time you’re looking for a healthy way to start your day, reach for the extra virgin olive oil.

A quality Extra virgin olive oil, like Morocco Gold, is  a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat that can help regulate blood sugar levels and control appetite. In addition, extra virgin olive oil is a good source of antioxidants and vitamin E, which are essential for maintaining good health.

Psychology Today List Extra Virgin Olive Oil As One Of Four Brain Boosting Foods

If health experts and researchers haven’t convinced you yet, perhaps Psychology Today will. The publication lists extra virgin olive oil as one of four foods specifically beneficial for the brain, alongside berries, omega-3s, and dark leafy greens.

Its endorsement is backed by numerous studies pointing to olive oil’s protective abilities, not just for the heart but for mental clarity and cognitive health. Whether it’s helping to stave off age-related cognitive decline or simply improving daily alertness, EVOO is a must-have for anyone looking to support their mental edge.

Adding extra virgin olive oil to your breakfast routine is an easy way to improve your overall health and a great new report from Psychology Today shows you how it can be used to power your brain at the start of the day.  They explain:

In addition to making changes to the general composition of your breakfast, you may want to consider adding in some specific foods that are linked to brain wellness because they’re rich in key brain health nutrients like omega-3 fats, plant nutrients, fiber, and certain vitamins and minerals. Extra-virgin olive oil is packed with plant nutrients and healthy fat and is linked to better brain health. It makes a delicious drizzle on top of eggs and other savory breakfasts!

Polyphenols and Oleocanthal: The Secret Behind the Brain Benefits

Polyphenols are natural compounds found in extra virgin olive oil that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Among these compounds, oleocanthal takes center stage as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.

What is Oleocanthal? It’s the polyphenol that gives good-quality olive oil its signature peppery kick. Beyond its culinary appeal, oleocanthal has been compared to ibuprofen for its ability to reduce inflammation. What makes this significant is the link between chronic inflammation and cognitive decline. Scientists believe a diet rich in polyphenols like oleocanthal can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.

Benefits of polyphenols and oleocanthal include:

• Fighting Brain Fog: Reducing inflammation clears the way for better focus and easier recall.
• Improving Memory: Antioxidants fight free radicals, which are known to damage memory-related brain cells.
• Boosting Neuroplasticity: Polyphenols help brain cells adapt, learn, and communicate more effectively.

For those who find joy in optimizing their health and longevity, adding a polyphenol-rich food like extra virgin olive oil to your breakfast is an effortless, rewarding habit worth adopting.

Olive Oil Tapenade Is A Great Addition To Easy Breakfast Dishes

You don’t need to reimagine your entire breakfast routine to benefit from olive oil. Adding this versatile ingredient in creative yet simple ways can elevate your morning meal.

One delicious way to enjoy EVOO at breakfast is by adding an olive oil tapenade to your dishes. Made with a blend of olives, capers, garlic, lemon juice, and a generous glug of EVOO, tapenade is rich in flavor and nutrients.

Following the Mediterranean Diet offers lots of great options to make the first meal of the day a bit more inspiring.  Especially if you have a bottle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil – like Morocco Gold – close at hand.

Tapenade is a simple yet flavoursome choice – made from crushed olives, capers and a good quality olive oil, all mixed together into a smooth paste.  Although it is very easy to make yourself there are also some great pre-made options out there too.   It is incredibly versatile and can be used as a spread on anything from crostini to meats, fish and vegetables.  It’s easy to see why it’s a firm favourite of followers of the Mediterranean Diet.

How to pick the best Olive Oil For Your Tapenade

When choosing an olive oil to use in your tapenade recipe, it’s important to go for the best olive oil you can afford.  Extra virgin olive oil is the highest quality, best olive oil you can get. Genuine extra virgin olive oil is rare and as a result is slightly more expensive.

The chemical characteristics of extra virgin olive oil (as with all vegetable oils) give an indication of the care with which it was made and stored: how the fruit was grown, transported and harvested, how it was pressed into oil, and how the oil was packaged and bottled. Stringent chemical analysis also helps to determine if the oil is adulterated in any way. The chemical standards for extra virgin olive oil are the highest of all the grades and, as such, offer a guarantee of quality.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Morocco Gold comes from a single source, from the Beni-Mellal region of Morocco. The olives are harvested by hand, early in the season whilst the fruit is still young and green. The olives are handled with care and attention throughout the harvesting and pressing process to ensure that only the best olives are used for Morocco Gold.

Uniquely, we include the results of our chemical analysis for acidity, peroxide and ultraviolet testing on each-and-every bottle of Morocco Gold so that our customers can see at a glance the guarantee of extra virgin olive oil quality.

Morocco Gold comes from the Picholine Marrocaine olive, which is characterised by its green, fruity flavour, with hints of almond and herbs, also it’s high level of polyphenols that give Morocco Gold it’s health enhancing qualities as well as it’s taste.

It does not have the ‘aggressive’ pungency of some extra virgin olive oils, giving Morocco Gold a well-balanced and satisfying finish. This also makes Morocco Gold highly versatile in how it can be used, either taken directly, dipping with bread, drizzling over salads, sautéing vegetables, the uses are limitless.

Why not try this delicious breakfast recipe to show off your Olive Oil Tapenade to its best?

Tapenade Crostini With Sunny Eggs

Ingredients

• 4 pieces of whole grain bread
• 2 teaspoons of Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive tapenade
• ½ cup microgreens
• 1 pat vegan butter
• 2 large eggs
• Pinch salt
• Black Pepper

Method

1. Toast bread in toaster or toaster oven.  Drizzle with Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder, and top with olive tapenade and microgreens.
2. Heat vegan butter over medium heat in a small frying pan.  Crack eggs onto pan, being careful not to break yolks.  Let eggs cook until whites are cooked but yolks are runny, about 8 minutes.  Reduce heat if yolks are beginning to harden.
3. Top toast with one egg, sprinkle with salt and cracked pepper. 

Olive Oil In Top 12 Foods For Long Term Wellness Say Top Longevity Experts

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Listed In New Report Of Key Foods For Longevity.

At Morocco Gold we are always delighted when extra virgin olive oil is recognised by medical and wellbeing experts as among the best foods for longevity. Once again, quality extra virgin olive oil has taken its place among the very best super foods chosen by three longevity experts as the best foods to eat more of.

The new report from Buzzfeed, lists olive oil – in particular extra virgin olive oil – as an excellent choice for ‘anyone who wants to live a longer life, because it has anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective and neuroprotective properties.

Speaking to Buzzfeed, Dr. Mark Hyman, an author, family physician, and director of the UltraWellness Center in Lenox, Massachusetts said:

“Just a half-teaspoon a day of extra virgin olive oil can significantly lower the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, respiratory diseases, and cancer,”

The presence of a polyphenol called Oleuropein is credited for being especially good for your long-term health. Oleuropein has anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective and neuroprotective properties.

Other key foods listed in the article that doctors say we should eat more of are:

Cruciferous Vegetables, Dark Leafy Greens and Fatty Fish – all staples in the ever-popular Mediterranean Diet.

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) isn’t just another trendy superfood—it’s been lauded for centuries as a staple of health and vitality. But why are medics and nutrition experts singing its praises as a longevity-boosting powerhouse? If you’re a health enthusiast, nutritionist, or devoted foodie looking to better understand your dietary choices, this deep dive into EVOO’s benefits will show you why it deserves a prime spot in your kitchen.

What Puts Extra Virgin Olive Oil On The List Of Foods We Should Eat More Of

Extra virgin olive oil is the highest quality olive oil available, made by cold-pressing olives without the use of heat or chemicals. This gentle process preserves its natural compounds, including antioxidants, vitamins, and monounsaturated fats (a.k.a. the “good fats”).

What really sets EVOO apart from regular olive oil is its high concentration of polyphenols—powerful antioxidants that help fight inflammation, oxidative stress, and even chronic diseases. These compounds make EVOO more than just a cooking oil; it’s a health-boosting elixir.

Key Health Benefits of EVOO for Longevity

1. Supports Heart Health

One of the standout benefits of EVOO is its ability to promote cardiovascular health. The monounsaturated fats in EVOO can help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol while raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease—a leading cause of death worldwide.

Plus, the polyphenols in EVOO are known to improve blood vessel function and reduce inflammation, offering further protection to your heart.

2. Combats Chronic Diseases

Inflammation is a common factor in many chronic conditions, including arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, EVOO can help mitigate these risks. Studies have shown that key components in EVOO, such as oleocanthal, mimic the effects of ibuprofen in reducing inflammation—making it a natural alternative for long-term health.

3. Boosts Brain Function

Want to keep your mind sharp as you age? EVOO might just be brain food. Research has linked regular consumption of EVOO to improved memory and cognitive function. It’s also been associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease, as antioxidants in EVOO help combat oxidative stress and protect brain cells from damage.

4. Helps Maintain a Healthy Weight

Contrary to popular belief, including healthy fats like EVOO in your diet can actually promote weight management. Its fats can make meals more satisfying, helping you feel fuller for longer and preventing overeating.

Additionally, EVOO has been found to aid in metabolizing stored body fat, making it a valuable ally for those looking to maintain or achieve a healthy weight.

5. Protects Against Aging

EVOO is packed with antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, which play a role in neutralizing free radicals—the culprits behind cellular damage and aging. These compounds help maintain your skin’s elasticity and protect your cells, keeping you looking and feeling youthful.

How to Incorporate Extra Virgin Olive Oil into Your Diet

Adding EVOO to your meals is easy, versatile, and delicious! Here are some simple ways to enjoy it regularly:

• Drizzle over salads for a flavorful and nutrient-packed dressing.
• Use it as a dip for whole-grain bread, paired with a sprinkle of sea salt or balsamic vinegar.
• Sauté vegetables or proteins in EVOO for a heart-healthy cooking method.
• Add a drizzle to soups, pasta dishes, or even pizza right before serving for a burst of flavor.
• Prepare homemade marinades for grilling or roasting.

Pro Tip: To maximize its benefits, opt for high-quality, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil and enjoy it in its raw form as much as possible to preserve its delicate nutrients.

What Science Says About Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Longevity

It’s not just anecdotal evidence—science backs up the claims about EVOO’s longevity benefits. Studies conducted on the Mediterranean diet, which heavily features EVOO, consistently show lower rates of heart disease, cancer, and cognitive decline in populations who adhere to this diet.

A groundbreaking study even found that high EVOO consumption is directly linked to a longer life expectancy. Researchers believe this is due to its ability to combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and improve overall bodily functions.

Living a longer, healthier life doesn’t require overhauling your diet—it can start with simple, impactful choices. Incorporating extra virgin olive oil into your meals is one of the easiest ways to nourish your body, protect against chronic diseases, and support your overall well-being.

Whether you’re a health enthusiast looking for the next addition to your pantry, a nutritionist recommending dietary improvements, or a foodie ready to experiment with healthier ingredients, EVOO is a game-changer worth celebrating.

Why Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil will be trending in 2025 and why you should make this best olive oil part of your lifestyle choices.

^{Updated December 27th 2024}

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 2025.

• Integrative Healing Therapies
• Digital detox Retreats
• Mental health prioritization
• Sustainable wellness
• Wellness journaling
• Gut health
• Holistic fitness
• Longevity
• Functional foods

What Are Functional Foods?

Functional foods are ingredients that offer health benefits that extend beyond their nutritional value. Some types contain supplements or other additional ingredients designed to improve health. The concept originated in Japan in the 1980s when government agencies started approving foods with proven benefits in an effort to better the health of the general population. Some examples include foods fortified with vitamins, minerals, probiotics, or fiber. Nutrient-rich ingredients like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains are also often considered functional foods. Similarly, fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants which are beneficial compounds that help protect against disease.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A Classic Functional Food

An example of a “nutraceutic” or “functional” food right from infancy, extra virgin olive oil is one of the best medicaments for delaying ageing and is also a good source of phytochemicals including polyphenolic compounds that contribute to its overall therapeutic characteristics.

An integral ingredient of the Mediterranean diet, extra-virgin olive oil has always been considered a middle road between food and medicine and there is growing evidence that its health benefits include reduction of coronary heart disease risk factor, prevention of several types of cancer, and the modification of immune and inflammatory responses.

It also helps improve gut health and has been shown to contribute towards longevity.

An Enduring Health & Wellness Aid

So, 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?’

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

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

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

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

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

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:

• Reduced of risk of cardiovascular diseases
• Beneficial effect on ulcers and gastritis
• Maintains the digestive tract in good health
• Helps to reduce blood pressure
• Help control healthy cholesterol levels
• Olive oil eases or prevents diabetes
• Olive oil lessens the severity of osteoporosis

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.

Discover The Amazing Benefits Of Extra Virgin Olive Oil For Children

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Childhood Nutrition

Are you constantly searching for healthy, flavourful ingredients to enhance your family’s diet? If so, it’s time to give extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) the spotlight it deserves. Widely celebrated for its rich flavour and incredible health benefits, EVOO is a must-have in your kitchen—and yes, that includes your child’s plate!

Extra virgin olive oil provides many fantastic health benefits and great practical applications. The high monounsaturated fatty acid content in extra virgin olive oil provides cardiovascular protection and is often linked to better cognitive and brain health in young people.

This post will explore why EVOO should be part of your child’s diet, its science-backed health benefits, and delicious kid-friendly ways to include it in your routine.

The Importance of Healthy Fats in Childhood

Not all fats are created equal, but healthy fats—like those found in extra virgin olive oil—are essential for children’s growth and development. While “fat” has often been unfairly demonized in nutritional culture, it’s crucial to remember that growing minds and bodies thrive on healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil.

Here’s why healthy fats are must-haves for kids at all stages of growth:

• Brain Development: Roughly 60% of the brain is made up of fat. Healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats (abundant in EVOO), are key for cognitive development, learning, and memory.
• Energy Source: Kids are constantly on the move, and fats provide a concentrated energy source to fuel their endless activity.
• Nutrient Absorption: Certain vitamins, like A, D, E, and K, are fat-soluble, meaning they need fat to be effectively absorbed into the body.
• Hormonal Balance: Fats help regulate hormones in the body, playing a role in mood, appetite, and overall growth.

Extra virgin olive oil combines all these benefits into one golden-hued powerhouse ingredient to easily elevate your child’s diet.

What Are the Key Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil for Children?

Extra virgin olive oil isn’t just another pantry staple—it’s an evidence-backed, nutrient-dense ingredient that offers a wealth of benefits for children. Here are several reasons why it’s particularly beneficial for young, developing bodies.

1. Rich in Monounsaturated Fats

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is loaded with monounsaturated fats, which are considered “good fats.” These fats can lower bad cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and support heart health—all while providing essential fuel for growing bodies.

2. Boosts Brain Health

Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains high levels of oleic acid, a key monounsaturated fat that supports brain development in children. It’s particularly helpful during the formative years when neural pathways are developing and cognitive abilities begin to flourish.

3. Packed with Antioxidants

Your child’s body is constantly fending off environmental stressors, and the antioxidants in Extra Virgin Olive Oil, such as vitamin E and polyphenols, help combat harmful free radicals. These antioxidants are also great for a strong immune system, aiding in the prevention of illnesses.

4. Supports Digestive Health

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is gentle on the digestive system and can even act as a natural aid for constipation in children—a common issue in early childhood. It supports gut health by encouraging the production of healthy gut bacteria.

5. Bone and Joint Health

Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains small but important levels of vitamin K, which plays a role in bone development. Combined with its anti-inflammatory properties, it also supports growing joints and reduces the risk of joint-related discomfort.

6. Promotes Healthy Skin

The vitamin E in EVOO not only helps your child’s insides but also works wonders for their skin. It keeps skin moisturized and boosts the body’s natural ability to repair damaged skin cells.

Polyphenol-Rich Extra Virgin Olive Oil For Children

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining the health of our children is more important than ever. Recent studies have shown that incorporating polyphenol-rich extra virgin olive oil into adolescent diets can significantly boost cardiovascular health.

A recent study has revealed the protective effective of polyphenols on the cardiovascular health of adolescents.

According to the research, published in the journal Scientific Reports, the consumption of polyphenols (found in high quality olive oils)  in adolescents is associated with a better cardiovascular health.

As part of the study, the researchers analyzed the amount of polyphenols in the urine of 1,326 adolescents that took part in the SI! Program (Integral Health) of 24 secondary education schools in Madrid and Barcelona.

The collaborative research study includes the participation of the University of Barcelona, the Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, the Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition Networking Biomedical Research Centre (CIBEROBN), the Spanish Cardiovascular Research Network (CIBERCV) and the SHE Foundation.

Polyphenols are bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties found in several plant-based foods, mainly in fruit, vegetables, nuts and olive oil.

Several studies have highlighted the positive impact of polyphenols on heart health. One study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming polyphenol-rich foods like extra virgin olive oil can significantly reduce markers of inflammation and improve endothelial function, which is vital for maintaining healthy blood vessels.

Polyphenols protect the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). They also improve the elasticity of blood vessels, which helps regulate blood pressure and ensures efficient blood flow. These mechanisms are especially important during adolescence, a crucial period for cardiovascular development.

Why The Best Extra Virgin Olive Oils Have The Most Polyphenols

Polyphenol rich olive oil is receiving the attention of scientific and health community lately because of their benefits for human body. Polyphenols are chemical compounds that are present in many natural foods. Polyphenol is also used as dietary supplements and can be taken as prescribed medicine.

Polyphenols are phytochemicals that occur in plants and render the colour to plants. Sources of polyphenols include peaches, pomegranate, grapes, oranges, cocoa powder and dark chocolate. However one of the most important sources of polyphenols is extra virgin olive oil. It is important that this is genuine, unprocessed extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold that will still have its polyphenols intact. Processed or refined olive oils usually have their polyphenols extracted from the oil during filtration and refining.

How to Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Meals Children Will Love

You’re sold on the idea of adding EVOO to your child’s diet. But where do you start? The versatility of EVOO makes incorporating it into kid-friendly meals a breeze. Here are some practical ideas for using it.

1. Drizzle It Over Vegetables

If your child is resistant to veggies, a drizzle of EVOO can go a long way. Toss roasted carrots, steamed broccoli, or grilled zucchini with some olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for a subtle burst of flavour that even picky eaters will enjoy.

2. Use It to Replace Butter

Swap butter for Extra Virgin Oil when cooking scrambled eggs or making a grilled cheese sandwich. It lends a mild, savoury flavour that’s perfect for these kid favourites.

3. Olive Oil Dipping Sauce

Turn plain bread into a treat by serving it with an olive oil dipping sauce. Combine EVOO with a pinch of salt, a dash of balsamic vinegar, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an easy, irresistible appetizer.

4. Bake with It

EVOO isn’t just for sautéing and roasting—it’s also a fantastic substitute for butter in baking. Try it in muffins, cakes, or cookies for a subtle, unique flavour while sneaking in some healthy fats.

5. Homemade Salad Dressing

Show your kids how fun it is to make their own salad dressing! Whisk together EVOO, lemon juice, and a dash of honey for a simple, tangy dressing that will transform any salad into a family favourite.

6. Blend It into Smoothies

Add a small drizzle of EVOO to your child’s fruit or veggie smoothie. They likely won’t even notice it, but their body will reap the many health benefits.

7. Top Pasta and Soups

Finish a bowl of spaghetti or minestrone soup with a teaspoon of high-quality EVOO for added richness and flavour. This works particularly well with Italian-inspired meals.

Autumn Soups With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Teach Healthy Eating Habits Early

Including extra virgin olive oil in your child’s diet isn’t just about nutrition—it’s about establishing lifelong habits and introducing them to quality ingredients. The earlier you expose your kids to flavourful, wholesome foods, the more likely they are to develop a love for eating well.

If you’re concerned about sourcing high-quality olive oil, look for bottles labelled “extra virgin” to ensure you’re getting a minimally processed product. Cold-pressed options are best, as they retain higher levels of nutrients and antioxidants.

Elevate Your Family’s Mealtime

Extra virgin olive oil is one of the simplest and most effective ways to boost the nutrition in your child’s meals without compromising on flavour. Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, it’s a versatile ingredient that supports growth, brain health, and overall well-being.

Whether drizzled over veggies, folded into baked goods, or blended into smoothies, EVOO can transform simple dishes into nutritional powerhouses that the whole family will love.

Start incorporating this golden elixir into your child’s diet today. Your family’s health—and taste buds.

Does extra virgin olive oil help you live longer? We examine the evidence.

^{Updated November 18th 2024}

Explore Longevity With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

In our quest for a longer and healthier life, we often seek out superfoods and magic potions. But what if the secret to longevity lies in something as simple and delightful as extra virgin olive oil? Health enthusiasts are buzzing about recent findings that suggest this liquid gold could be a key player in enhancing heart health and extending your lifespan.

This blog post will explore the intriguing connections between extra virgin olive oil and longevity, offering insights and practical tips for incorporating it into your daily routine.

There are so many reasons why people choose extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold over other types of oils. Whether this as part of a healthy diet, for its delicious taste or extra virgin oil because of its now well-researched and documented health benefits.

New research suggests that olive oil could reduce your risk of death, including from heart disease, stroke, cancer and dementia. Although the link between olive oil and reduced risk of heart disease is well known, the researchers wanted to find out if it is linked to a reduced risk of death overall.

News stories about this research reported that olive oil can reduce the risk of fatal heart disease and other diseases. The Times carried two articles about the research, a news story and a feature which included an interview with the study author. The Mail article did explain that the results had been adjusted to take other factors into account.

The British Heart Foundation looked behind the headlines to give their own view.

The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, analysed the diet of around 90,000 men and women over a 28-year period. None of them had heart or circulatory disease or cancer at the outset. Every four years they were asked how often they ate specific foods. 

Researchers found those who consumed the most olive oil (more than half a tablespoon a day) were less likely to die from any cause, including heart disease or stroke, cancer, lung disease and neurodegenerative disease (such as Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia).

After adjusting for other factors, the people who ate the most olive oil had a 19 per cent lower risk of dying from cardiovascular causes such as heart disease or stroke, compared with the people who ate the least olive oil. The biggest effect was seen in neurodegenerative disease deaths (29 per cent lower risk in people who ate most olive oil). For respiratory disease the risk was 18 per cent lower and for cancer it was 17 per cent lower.

The study also found substituting 10 grams a day (just over a tablespoon) of fats such as margarine, butter, mayonnaise and dairy fat with the equivalent amount of olive oil was also associated with a lower risk of death.

Although this kind of study can’t prove cause and effect, the researchers said there are potential reasons why olive oil might reduce death risk from such a range of diseases. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fat and specific plant compounds, which may have a positive effect on blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as having anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties, and encouraging healthy gut bacteria.

The study’s lead author said: “Our findings support current dietary recommendations to increase the intake of olive oil and other unsaturated vegetable oils.” 

A major advantage of the study was the large number of people taking part over a long period of time. They were all nurses and other health professionals in the United States.

The British Heart Foundation Verdict

We know from previous studies olive oil may have a range of health benefits, and this study supports existing recommendations for heart and circulatory health. Replacing saturated fats in your diet (like butter, lard, and ghee) with unsaturated fats like olive, sunflower or vegetable oil can help to lower cholesterol levels. Olive oil is also a well-known part of the Mediterranean diet, which is a dietary pattern associated with better heart and circulatory health. 

This study is helpful to broaden our understanding of how olive oil may reduce the risk of death from other conditions, not just heart disease. However more evidence is required to say there is a direct link between the consumption of olive oil and lowered risk of dying. 

As part of a healthy, balanced diet, switching from butter, ghee or lard to unsaturated fats like olive oil is an easy change whether you use it in salad dressings, to drizzle it on bread instead of using butter, or for frying and roasting.

The Revelation of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Heart Health

Unlike refined oils, extra virgin olive oil is extracted from the first pressing of olives, preserving its natural goodness. The study’s findings suggest that incorporating this oil into your diet could contribute to better heart health, potentially reducing the risk of heart-related issues.

Findings from multiple studies have sparked discussions in the health and culinary communities about the potential of extra virgin olive oil as a preventive measure against heart disease. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms at play, the existing evidence is promising enough to encourage the inclusion of this oil in daily meals.

What Makes Extra Virgin Olive Oil a Heart Health Hero?

The health benefits of extra virgin olive oil are not just hearsay—they have a scientific basis rooted in its unique composition. One of the standout properties of this oil is its high content of monounsaturated fats. These healthy fats have been linked to lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL), which is essential for maintaining a healthy heart.

In addition to monounsaturated fats, extra virgin olive oil is packed with antioxidants like polyphenols. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are known contributors to heart disease. By reducing inflammation, extra virgin olive oil supports overall cardiovascular health, potentially lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Furthermore, extra virgin olive oil has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties similar to those of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This means that regular consumption of the oil could provide a natural way to reduce inflammation and protect the heart from damage caused by chronic inflammation.

The Role of Healthy Fats In Our Longevity

When it comes to living a long and healthy life, healthy fats like those found in extra virgin olive oil play a crucial role. For years, dietary fats were vilified, but recent research has shifted the narrative, highlighting the importance of including the right types of fats in our diets. Healthy fats are essential for brain function, hormone production, and nutrient absorption.

Extra virgin olive oil, with its abundance of monounsaturated fats, provides a heart-friendly source of energy that can sustain you throughout the day. These fats are also known to promote a feeling of fullness, helping to regulate appetite and prevent overeating. By including healthy fats in your meals, you not only nourish your body but also support its natural processes, contributing to overall well-being and longevity.

Additionally, the Mediterranean diet, which heavily incorporates extra virgin olive oil, has been associated with longer life expectancy and reduced risk of chronic diseases. This age-old dietary pattern emphasizes whole foods, fresh produce, and healthy fats, offering a holistic approach to health that resonates with many cultures around the world.

Discovering Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil for Healthier Living

For those seeking to integrate the benefits of extra virgin olive oil into their daily lives, Morocco Gold offers a premium choice. Sourced from the fertile lands of Morocco, this extra virgin olive oil is known for its exceptional quality and rich flavor profile. Made from hand-picked olives, Morocco Gold is cold pressed to preserve its nutrients and ensure a superior taste experience.

Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil stands out not only for its flavor but also for its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. The brand’s dedication to producing high-quality oil aligns with the values of health enthusiasts and foodies who prioritize both taste and integrity in their food choices.

By incorporating Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil into your meals, you can elevate the health benefits while indulging in a culinary delight. Whether drizzled over salads, used in cooking, or simply enjoyed with a piece of crusty bread, this oil offers a versatile and delicious way to enhance your diet and support your well-being.

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

^{Updated 11th November 2024}

Celebrate Five Years Of Healthier Hair With Morocco Gold Olive Oil

With the holiday season and the parties it brings getting closer all the time, would you like to have hair that shines bright too thanks to the wonders of extra virgin olive oil?

With a world saturated with chemical-laden products, a return to natural solutions is appealing—for good reason. Extra virgin olive oil, celebrated for centuries as a health elixir, is making waves as a wonder ingredient for hair care. This blog will explore five compelling reasons why incorporating this golden oil into your hair routine could be the game-changer you need this year.

Morocco Gold, a leading brand in premium extra virgin olive oil, marks its fifth anniversary by promoting healthier lifestyle choices, including hair care. Known for its rich nutrients and purity, Morocco Gold has become synonymous with quality. Olive oil isn’t just for salads or drizzling over pasta; its benefits extend far beyond the kitchen, reaching into the realm of beauty and wellness.

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.

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

The antioxidants found in high-quality extra virgin olive oil, like Morocco Gold, help protect your hair from environmental damage. Pollution, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions can weaken hair over time. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause oxidative stress.

Incorporating olive oil into your hair routine acts as a shield against these aggressors. By using a few drops as a leave-in treatment, you’re not only adding shine but also fortifying your hair against daily wear and tear. This is especially useful for those living in urban areas where pollution levels are high.

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 Natural Conditioner

Extra virgin olive oil is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for hair hydration and conditioning. Applying a small amount to your scalp and hair can help lock in moisture, leaving it soft and shiny. Many commercial conditioners contain synthetic oils that merely coat the hair, but olive oil penetrates deeply to nourish from within.

Using it regularly can prevent split ends and breakage. A weekly hair mask made with olive oil can deliver intense hydration, particularly beneficial during the dry winter months. For those accustomed to styling tools, olive oil offers protection against the drying effects of heat.

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.

How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Enhances Hair Growth

While genetics play a significant role in hair growth, using olive oil can encourage speedier results. Its ability to nourish and protect helps create an optimal environment for hair to grow. The combination of Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins works synergistically to support robust hair health.

Applying olive oil as a hair mask or hot oil treatment can stimulate growth from the roots, adding volume and thickness. This is an excellent solution for anyone looking to enhance their natural hair growth efforts.

Why Choose Olive Oil Over Commercial Products

In comparison to commercial hair care products laden with chemicals, olive oil stands out for its purity and effectiveness. It doesn’t strip the hair of its natural oils and is free from harmful additives. Many products promise instant results but can ultimately lead to more damage.

Switching to natural options like olive oil aligns with a growing trend towards holistic, sustainable living. Not only does it contribute to hair health, but it’s also environmentally friendly and cruelty-free.

Olive Oil For Skin: The Science

Vitamin E, abundant in extra virgin olive oil, contributes to repairing damaged hair follicles. This vitamin enhances the elasticity and strength of hair, reducing the likelihood of damage as you style or color it. Its healing properties can help rejuvenate brittle or chemically treated hair.

By consistently using olive oil, you may notice a reduction in hair loss and thinning. Vitamin E helps to repair and build tissue, which can support the health of your hair follicles. Consider olive oil as part of your post-shampoo routine to boost shine and manageability.

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!

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.

Conclusion

Extra virgin olive oil is more than a culinary staple; it’s a powerhouse for enhancing hair health. From conditioning to protecting against environmental stressors, its multifaceted benefits make it a must-have for hair care enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike.

Ready to experience the magic of olive oil for yourself this festive season? Start by incorporating it into your regular hair care routine and watch your hair transform. For more guidance, consider consulting beauty professionals who can tailor olive oil treatments to your specific needs.

Five Ways You Can Use Olive Oil In Your Daily Routine

New Study Highlights Negative Impact Of Processed Food

^{Updated August 7th 2024}

Choosing unprocessed foods like extra virgin olive oil reduces mortality risks

Extra virgin olive oil is a great example of a minimally processed food that offers numerous health benefits. And, according to a major new study in the BMJ, the impact of ultra-processed food consumption on human health may be more significant than the food’s nutritional qualities.

The research paper published by the Journal of the British Medical Association (BMJ) found that significant ultra-processed food consumption leads to higher mortality risks by several causes.

The key takeaway here is that the quality of your diet can influence your lifespan. By focusing on natural, minimally processed foods, you can improve your overall health and longevity.

We live in a fast-paced world where convenience often trumps health. Processed foods are not only easy to prepare but also palatable, making them a staple in many households. However, these foods come with hidden dangers. Studies have shown that diets high in processed foods can lead to chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. When you consume these foods regularly, you’re ingesting unhealthy levels of sodium, trans fats, and artificial additives.

So how can choosing foods with little or no processing like extra virgin olive oil help reduce these risks?

Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil A Processed Food?

Processed foods are defined as any food that has been altered from its natural state in some way during manufacturing. This can include everything from adding preservatives to changing the texture or flavor. processed foods are ubiquitous in the modern world, and they often seem like a convenient option. However, there are several good reasons to reduce your intake of processed foods. First of all, processed foods tend to be high in unhealthy ingredients like added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats. These ingredients can have negative impacts on your health, including increasing your risk of obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. processed foods also generally contain fewer vitamins and minerals than their unprocessed counterparts.

Most processed foods are unhealthy and should be avoided, but there are a few exceptions. One of these is extra virgin olive oil. Unlike other oils, extra virgin olive oil is not processed with chemicals or solvents. Instead, it is simply cold-pressed from olives that have been crushed and then strained.

Because extra virgin olive oil is minimally processed, it retains a higher level of beneficial nutrients compared to other oils. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, polyphenols, and antioxidants—all vital for maintaining good health. Therefore, including extra virgin olive oil in your diet allows you to enjoy the benefits of an unprocessed food while enhancing the flavor of your dishes. As a result, it retains its natural flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy choice for cooking or dressing salads. While extra virgin olive oil is technically a processed food, it is much healthier than most other processed options.

Additionally, many processed foods contain harmful chemicals that can potentially disrupt your hormones or increase your risk of cancer. For these reasons, it is generally best to choose whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. However, if you do opt for processed foods, be sure to choose ones that are made with healthy ingredients and minimal processing.

Health Benefits Of Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Rich in Healthy Fats

One of the standout features of extra virgin olive oil is its high content of monounsaturated fats. These healthy fats are known to reduce bad cholesterol levels in the blood, lowering the risk of heart disease. Unlike saturated fats found in processed foods, monounsaturated fats are beneficial for cardiovascular health. Incorporating extra virgin olive oil into your diet can help maintain a healthy lipid profile, promoting overall heart health.

Packed with Antioxidants

Antioxidants are crucial for neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body, and extra virgin olive oil is packed with them. Polyphenols, a type of antioxidant found in this oil, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. They help protect your body against oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases, including cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Regular consumption of extra virgin olive oil can boost your antioxidant intake, helping you stay healthier for longer.

Aiding Weight Management

Contrary to popular belief, not all fats contribute to weight gain. The monounsaturated fats in extra virgin olive oil can actually aid in weight management. These fats help you feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Additionally, extra virgin olive oil has been found to improve metabolic health, further supporting weight management efforts. Including this oil in your diet can help you achieve a balanced, healthy weight.

Extra virgin olive oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, and it has been shown to improve heart health and blood sugar control. Extra virgin olive oil can be used in a variety of ways, such as drizzling it over salads or using it in place of other oils when cooking. When choosing an olive oil, be sure to look for one that is cold-pressed and certified extra virgin for the best results.

As reported in Olive Oil Times, the same edition of the BMJ also featured American research demonstrating a link between high consumption of ultra-processed food and colorectal cancer, with significant differences in the impact between men and women.

Investigating the results of their 15-year study on more than 20,000 individuals, the Italian researchers tested the effects of consuming ultra-processed food, classified as such by NOVA ratings, while also considering their nutritional classification from the Food Standards Agency Nutrient Profiling System (FSAm-NPS).

NOVA was developed by researchers at the University of São Paulo in Brazil. According to a 2019 United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization paper, NOVA definitions of ultra-processed foods are the most applied in scientific literature.

FSAm-NPS, on the other hand, is currently used to rate foods by relevant front-of-pack-labeling systems, such as the French-born Nutri-Score.

“We felt the need to see if Nutri-Score could really help improve public health, as the European Commission is currently considering its introduction as an E.U.-wide mandatory food rating system,” Marialaura Bonaccio, senior epidemiologist at the Italian Mediterranean Neurologic Institute and co-author of the study, told Olive Oil Times.

“In the last 10 years, research has gone beyond focusing on the sole nutritional composition of foods,” she added. “Thanks to the work of Carlos Monteiro and others, the research has begun focusing on how food is transformed and manipulated.”

In the study, the authors wrote that “a significant proportion of the higher mortality risk associated with an elevated intake of nutrient-poor foods was explained by a high degree of food processing. In contrast, the relation between a high ultra-processed food intake and mortality was not explained by the poor quality of these foods.”

As explained by OOT:

The food industry commonly uses additives to give specific colors to food and sweeten or preserve it. Other additives cover many functions, such as enhancing flavors, suppressing fungi, inhibiting particular characteristics of the food or sanitizing the food itself.

OOT

“The processing of foods might play a role in health beyond their nutritional composition, through a variety of mechanisms triggered by non-nutritional components, such as cosmetic additives, food contact materials, neoformed compounds, and degradation of the food matrix,” wrote the researchers.

Easy Ways to Incorporate Extra Virgin Olive Oil into Your Diet

Drizzling Over Salads

One of the easiest ways to incorporate extra virgin olive oil into your diet is by using it as a dressing for salads. Its rich, robust flavor enhances the taste of fresh vegetables, making your salads more enjoyable. Simply drizzle a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over your greens, add a splash of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper for a delicious, healthy salad dressing.

Cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is versatile enough to be used in cooking. Whether you’re sautéing vegetables, grilling meats, or baking, this oil can add a depth of flavor to your dishes. It’s important to note that extra virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point compared to refined oils, so it’s best used for low to medium-heat cooking. This ensures that the oil retains its nutritional properties while adding a delightful taste to your meals.

Adding to Smoothies

Believe it or not, you can even add extra virgin olive oil to your smoothies. A teaspoon of this oil can boost the nutrient content of your smoothie, providing you with healthy fats and antioxidants. It pairs well with ingredients like spinach, avocado, and berries, blending seamlessly into your beverage. This is a unique and effective way to reap the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil.

“The health risks that we have found in our study are related to significant consumption of ultra-processed food,” Bonaccio added. “Therefore, the suggestion here is not to abolish that kind of food but to limit its intake. People should stop focusing only on the nutritional profile of food. They need to start exploring the degree of processing in the food they buy.”

Morocco Gold: A Single Source Extra Virgin Olive Oil

When it comes to olive oil, you generally get what you pay for. The best olive oils are made from a single source of olives, and they undergo a lengthy and expensive process of cold pressing and filtering.

As a result, they tend to have a richer flavor and a higher concentration of healthy compounds. However, not everyone can afford to splurge on the best olive oil every time they cook. Those on a tighter budget may be tempted to look for an olive oil that is made from a blend. These oils are usually less expensive, but they may not have the same health and taste quality as the single source oils, such as Morocco Gold. Just be sure to check the label carefully to make sure you’re getting a quality product. When it comes to olive oil, quality is always more important than price.

We are so proud of everything that goes into Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive new harvest that we can’t wait to put it all on the label!  The label is a hallmark of the quality and grade of any reputable extra virgin olive oil and we update ours with each new harvest to ensure our customers are fully informed.  Unfortunately, practices including false labelling and mixing of oils may well have been exacerbated by the impact of blight and adverse weather conditions in EU producer countries in attempts to recover lost volume and value.

Our aim to re-establish consumer trust and confidence in extra virgin olive oil as ‘the original superfood’ through setting a new standard in authenticity and traceability. Our labelling enables our customers to make well informed choices about the olive oil they prefer.

Conclusion

Switching to extra virgin olive oil is a small change that can have a big impact on your health. By choosing this minimally processed oil, you’re reducing your intake of harmful substances found in processed foods and boosting your consumption of healthy fats and antioxidants. Whether drizzled over salads, used in cooking, or added to smoothies, extra virgin olive oil is a versatile ingredient that can elevate your diet and improve your well-being. If you’re ready to take the next step in your health journey, consider booking a consultation with our nutrition experts who can guide you in making more informed dietary choices. Start today and experience the benefits of extra virgin olive oil for yourself!

What Are The Best Store Cupboard Accompaniments For Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

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Why Choose Extra Virgin Olive Oil In Your Diet At All?

Extra virgin olive oil is a staple in kitchens worldwide, but are you making the most of it? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, knowing which foods pair best with extra virgin olive oil can transform your culinary creations. This blog post dives into the best pantry staples to complement your extra virgin olive oil, why it’s a versatile and healthy option, and practical tips for using it in every meal. Let’s turn your larder into a treasure trove of flavours!

Extra virgin olive oil isn’t just a cooking oil; it’s a culinary hero. Known for its rich flavour and dense nutritional profile, extra virgin olive oil elevates simple dishes into gourmet experiences. Packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s no wonder health experts and chefs alike sing its praises.

With the increasing emphasis on healthy eating and wellness, it is important to understand the best foods to match with extra virgin olive oil for a healthy diet. Extra virgin olive oil is an excellent source of healthy, unsaturated fats that can support healthy weightloss goals.

Paired with whole grains, vegetables, and fish, extra virgin olive oil can give your daily diet the nutritional boost you need while tasting delicious. It also offers a range of flavonoids, which act as antioxidants to help protect cells from inflammation and oxidative damage.

Extra virgin olive oil is not only one of the healthiest oils for our bodies, but it can also be used to create delicious meals that can support our healthy lifestyle goals. Using extra virgin olive oil in cooking is an excellent way to ensure you’re consuming healthy fat and keeping up with your nutrition. This healthy oil makes vegetables, legumes, grains, fish, and poultry so much more flavorful.

While standard cooking oils can add taste as well, extra virgin olive oil can also help you feel full for a longer period of time. By incorporating extra virgin olive oil into each meal you can enjoy healthy foods that add more nutrition and promote better wellness and weightloss results.

Best Store Cupboard Accompaniments For Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Is there anything more satisfying than dipping fresh, crusty bread into a pool of golden extra virgin olive oil? Choose high-quality artisanal bread like ciabatta or sourdough for the perfect pairing. Add a sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of balsamic vinegar to elevate this simple pleasure into a culinary delight.

Followers of Morocco Gold’s popular news feed will know that no health-conscious pantry should be without the best extra virgin olive oil you can find.

But just what are the five most important items to sit alongside your bottle of Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil to ensure you can make easy meals to keep your mind and body working at its best?

Let us run you through our top five:

Good Quality Pasta

Whether it’s Spaghetti, Tagliatelle, Penne or Bucatini, did you know there were 33 types of Italian Pasta to chose from?  They all have slightly different flavours and shapes, but you can have a lot of fun experimenting with matching different sauces to each pasta type.  Just don’t tell the purest chefs as you may be breaking some gastronomical rule!

Whatever you choose, here is one of the most basic and well-loved sauces which benefits from the simplicity of ingredients, the most important of which (we think!) is extra virgin olive oil.

Fresh Herbs and Spices

Enhance the flavour of your EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL with a variety of fresh herbs and spices. Basil, rosemary, thyme, and oregano are excellent choices. You can create flavoured oils by infusing EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL with these herbs, making it a versatile addition to salads, pasta, and more.

Sea Salt

A good pinch of sea salt can enhance the natural flavours of EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL. Opt for coarse sea salt or popular varieties like Maldon or Himalayan pink salt. Sprinkle it over your finished dishes or add it to your dipping oil for an extra layer of taste.

Freshly Baked Bread

Let’s face it, there’s nothing better than the smell of your own freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen but, if time is more stretched, there is a wealth of fabulous bakeries (including those in your local supermarket) that can provide you with a fine artisan loaf of your choice.  For the healthiest accompaniment to your extra virgin olive oil, you would be best to opt for something like Sourdough, Whole Wheat, Oat Bread or Gluten Free.  But whatever your choice, the next bit is simple: tear a generous piece by hand, pour your Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil in a small dish, add some balsamic vinegar if you please and just dip to heart’s content!

Tomatoes

As well as being the centre of fierce debate as to its categorisation as a fruit or a vegetable, the humble tomato is bursting with health benefits. A single tomato can provide about 40% of the daily recommended minimum of vitamin C. What’s more, tomatoes supply vitamin A, which supports immunity, vision, and skin health; vitamin K, which is good for your bones; and potassium, a key nutrient for heart function, muscle contractions, and maintaining a healthy blood pressure and fluid balance.  So, what better compliment to the health-giving polyphenol rich extra virgin olive oil?

 
Flour and Eggs

Ok, strictly speaking that’s two ingredients but our point is this:  the best extra virgin olive oil is an excellent component of many delicious baking recipes.  It offers a lighter, healthier alternative to butter.  Why not try it in this Italian classic

Mozzarella

Fancy a bit of a crowd pleaser that takes hardly any time to prepare but tastes like a slice of sunshine?  Just like the best extra virgin olive oil, good quality mozzarella is worth every penny.

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Practical Tips For Cooking With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Breakfast Boost

Starting your day with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can set a delicious tone. Add a splash to your scrambled eggs, or drizzle it over avocado toast with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and sea salt. The healthy fats in extra virgin olive oil will keep you energized and satisfied all morning.

Lunchtime Lift

Extra virgin olive oil can be a game-changer in your lunch routine. Toss your salads with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice for a simple yet flavourful dressing. Use it to sauté vegetables or as a finishing touch on soups to add depth and richness.

Dinner Delight

Extra virgin olive oil shines in dinner dishes too. Roast your favourite vegetables with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Use it as a base for marinades for meats and fish, or stir it into pasta sauces for a silky finish.

Elevate Your Salads

Simple Dressings

Creating your salad dressings at home is easy and rewarding. Combine extra virgin olive oil with balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey for a classic vinaigrette. Experiment with different vinegars and citrus juices to find your perfect blend.

Mediterranean Favourites

Explore Mediterranean flavours by pairing extra virgin olive oil with ingredients like feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. These combinations not only taste amazing but also pack a nutritional punch, making your salads more satisfying and healthy.

Grain Bowls

Incorporate extra virgin olive oilinto grain bowls for an extra layer of flavor. Drizzle it over quinoa, farro, or brown rice, and top with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a sprinkle of feta. It’s a wholesome, delicious meal in a bowl.

Hearty Stews

Stews with dense flavours benefit from a touch of extra virgin olive oil. Incorporate it into beef or vegetable stews for a richer taste. Add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its delicate flavours and health benefits.

Baking with extra virgin olive oil.

Moist and Flavourful Cakes

Yes, you can bake with extra virgin olive oil! Use it in place of butter or other oils in cake recipes to keep them moist and add a unique flavour. Olive oil cakes, particularly those made with citrus, are a delightful treat.

Savory Breads

Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for savoury baking. Use it in focaccia or herbed bread recipes for a tender crumb and rich flavour. The oil’s natural sweetness shines through, complementing the savoury herbs and salt.

Cooking And Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Canola Oil Explored

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Canola Oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Both Have a Range of Health Benefits

If you’re trying to decide between canola oil and extra virgin olive oil, it’s worth considering the different health benefits of each. Health-conscious consumers, home cooks, and nutrition enthusiasts alike are frequently faced with the dilemma of which oil to choose for their culinary adventures. Both canola and extra virgin olive oils boast a range of health benefits, but which one truly deserves a place in your kitchen? This blog post aims to unravel the pros and cons of extra virgin olive oil versus canola oil, helping you make informed decisions for your health and cooking needs.

Extra virgin olive oil is a good source of monounsaturated fats, which have been linked with reduced inflammation and a lower risk of heart disease. Canola oil, on the other hand, is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain health. So which one is better for your health?

Ultimately, it depends on your individual needs and preferences. For example, if you’re looking to reduce inflammation, extra virgin olive oil may be a better choice. If you’re interested in boosting your daily intake of vitamins E and K, then canola oil may be a good option.

How To Choose Between Canola Oil and Olive Oil For Cooking

When it comes to cooking oils, there are a lot of choices on the market. Two of the most popular options are extra virgin olive oil and canola oil. So, which is the best oil for cooking?

Extra virgin olive oil is made from pure, cold-pressed olives. It has a slightly fruity flavor and a strong aroma. Premium, cold pressed single sourced extra virgin olive oils, like Morocco Gold, also have a high concentrations of polyphenols – a powerful antioxidant. Canola oil, on the other hand, is made from a hybrid plant that is part of the rapeseed family. It has a milder flavor and can often be less expensive than extra virgin olive oil.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is A Great Source of Monounsaturated Fat

One of the most touted benefits of extra virgin olive oil is its high content of monounsaturated fats. These healthy fats are known to reduce bad cholesterol levels, helping to maintain heart health. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a Mediterranean diet enriched with extra virgin olive oil significantly reduced the risk of cardiovascular events. It’s no wonder this oil is a favorite among health-conscious consumers.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is An Antioxidant Powerhouse

Extra virgin olive oil is packed with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols and vitamin E. These compounds help combat oxidative stress in the body, reducing inflammation and protecting cells from damage. Regular consumption of extra virgin olive oil has been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers.

Cooking with Olive Oil Or Canola: The Pros and Cons

So, with so many benefits to choose from in both products, which oil is the best for cooking? The answer may depend on what you’re cooking. If you’re looking for a healthy option, extra virgin olive oil is the better choice. It’s lower in saturated fat than canola oil and contains antioxidants that can help to protect against heart disease and cancer. However, if you’re cooking at high temperatures, canola oil can have a higher smoke point than some extra virgin olive oil, so it won’t break down as easily when heated. Ultimately, the best oil for cooking depends on your personal preferences and what you’re making.

According to a great report from registered dietician Isabel Smith talking to WellandGood, Canola Oil is high in omega-6 fatty acids  – which may not be as good as it sounds.

“The problem with canola oil is that it is extremely high in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats (PUFA). A diet high in these omega-6 fats will cause systemic inflammation in the body, which is an underlying commonality with all modern chronic diseases, including heart disease and diabetes,” she says. The key is to consume more omega-3 fatty acids than omega-6 fatty acids, so consuming too much canola oil can actually work against you, in terms of heart health.”

However, she also pointed out that canola oil is high in phytosterols, which helps absorb cholesterol in the body, therefore reducing overall cholesterol levels.

Extra Virgin Olive And Lowered Inflammation

When discussing the case for extra virgin olive oil, Smith had many positives to consider.

Olive oil is an anti-inflammatory oil, while canola oil is known to be pro-inflammatory,” Smith says. This is because, she explains, olive oil is high in antioxidants, which fights off free radicals in the body. “Olive oil contains strong antioxidants, mainly oleocanthal and oleic acid, which can help reduce inflammatory markers in the body like CRP (C-reactive protein),” she says.

The report from WellandGood also points out that olive oil is good for your heart and could help improve memory.

Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which support heart health, and because its polyunsaturated fat content is quite low, it’s less controversial of a heart healthy oil than canola. 

Canola Oil Versus Olive Oil: The Verdict

According to Healthline, evoo is healthier than canola, as it provides many disease-fighting antioxidants and is good for your heart.

The report goes on to say that research links quality olive oil – especially extra virgin olive oil – to health benefits, including benefits to your heart. It is less refined and boasts more antioxidants than canola oil, which makes it a better choice.

When it comes to making a final decision on whether to cook with either oil, Smith’s verdict suggests that, although it may be worth stocking both in your kitchen, her chosen favourite is undoubtedly olive oil.

“I would advise choosing olive oil almost every time,” she says. “Canola oil has a high smoke point, which is why it’s often used when frying or cooking foods at high heat, but there are much better options, like avocado oil. Canola oil is also always the cheaper option, but spending the little bit of extra money on something like olive oil is always a recommendation of mine.”