Olive oil for a healthy you

Decoding the multiple benefits of olive oil

Edible oils are under constant scrutiny and criticism for posing a potential threat to health. While a significant portion of the population is opting for a no-fat diet, health experts are voicing their concerns on a fat-free diet. Nutritionists are of the opinion that a fat-free diet does not fit into the mechanism of the body as a majority of human anatomy is made of fats such as cell tissues and brain. The brain needs fat to perform its neurological deliverables and in the absence of fat in the body, the mechanism acts hostile. While crop-based edible oils are genetically twisted and can trigger the body’s immune system to react adversely, fruit and seed-based oils can bring respite to all the health issues.

With an array of health benefits, this small, pickled flavour fruit has become an integral part of healthy gourmet in no time. The healthy edible oil market in India is worth Rs 2,000 cr, with annual per capita consumption of 16 kg. What more, with the growing awareness of lifestyle diseases, the industry is expecting a boom in the coming years.

The many benefits

Olive oil is a storehouse of :

* Monounsaturated fat: This reduces the risk of heart diseases

* Omega 9: This keeps your brain healthy by producing good cholesterol, and also keeps the skin radiant.

* Antioxidants: Extra virgin olive oil is loaded with antioxidants, some of which have powerful organic effects.

* Nutrients: Olive oil contains nutrients that can fight inflammation. This includes oleic acid, as well as the antioxidant oleocanthal.

Apart from this, olive oil also helps in reducing the risk of cancer and also aids weight loss.

(The author is VP, Olive Oil Association of India)