The olives that are harvested to create extra virgin olive oil come from some of the most beautiful areas of the Mediterranean. This beauty can be deceptive, since the area that is home to olive trees is harsh and rocky. This arid and mountainous area creates one of the most nutritious fruits available to man. The olive is one of nature's most perfect foods.
Olive oil comes in many grades. The most delicious and most nutritious of these grades is extra virgin olive oil. This oil is extracted from the firm, green olives harvested in early fall. The color of extra virgin olive oil is a pale green or crystal clear and the flavor is unforgettable. Cold presses are used to remove the oil from the olives. No chemicals, dyes or additional processing procedures are needed to create this pure oil. This lack of processing is one of the reasons that olive oil is so nutritious. The benefits are quite numerous.
Olive oil has become more popular in recent years because of its healthy attributes. It contains large amounts of vitamin E and vitamin K. Olive oil is also filled with antioxidants. These are nutrients which are believed to protect the body from damage due to environmental factors like smoke and other carcinogens. Olive oil is easily digested, the body naturally absorbs this oil and it soothes the stomach and bowels. Olive oil contains nutrients which protect bones and make calcium absorption easier for the body. Among all of the oils available for cooking, olive oil is the most nutritious.
Extra virgin olive oil is the most valuable and sought-after type of olive oil. The olives are collected from the olive trees prior to ripening. The title of virgin comes from the fact that no chemical processes are used when producing the olive oil. The oil is clear or extremely light green in color and should be entirely free from impurities when viewed through glass and must only be obtained through cold pressing methods. This means that the oil has never been heated during production. Heating olive oil to a high temperature can cause the loss of vitamin E and prophenols which reduces the value of the oil. This oil tends to be the most expensive, but the health values are well worth the added cost.
Good for your Face.
If you plan on using olive oil as part of your skin care regimen, be careful not to use pure olive oil. The term "pure" may make you think that this is great for your skin, but this is not the best choice. Pure olive oil is a lesser quality than extra virgin olive oil and has a much higher acid content.
So go ahead and start drinking! Two tablespoons a day to receive benefits. It can also be applied topically. Just wipe off excess oil. A little goes a long way!
STORE BRAND RECOMMENDATIONS
California Olive Ranch Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil
DISCLAIMER
Always consult your physician before beginning any nutrition regimen. This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. Consult with your healthcare professional to design an appropriate program for your needs.
All comments written above are my own opinion and thoughts as it relates to nutrition.
