Why Everyone Should Be Using Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil comes from fresh olives that are cold-pressed, strained, and then bottled with no preservatives or other additives mixed in. 

There are numerous health benefits associated with extra virgin olive oil and its ability to be enjoyed in various ways. 

This article will explore why extra virgin olive oil is a good choice for your diet and how it has become a household staple in many homes.

Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has a lot of antioxidants, polyphenols, and healthy fats. The antioxidants found in EVOO can help reduce inflammation, lower your risk of chronic diseases, and keep your heart healthy.

It is also beneficial for your gut health because it contains beneficial compounds called phenolic compounds, which help reduce digestive problems. EVOO is also a great source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which help lower cholesterol levels. 

They also help improve blood sugar levels and prevent developing type 2 diabetes. On top of that, EVOO also helps in weight loss by making you feel fuller for longer stretches and reducing your cravings for unhealthy snacks. 

Regular EVOO consumption can also help enhance cognitive function and mood.

How It Became a Household Staple

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and has beena household staple for hundreds of years. 

For centuries, people in this region have been using this oil for cooking, dressing, and medicinal purposes. 

Over the years, the consumption of EVOO has spread around the world, and people are discovering the tremendous health benefits associated with it.

With increasing awareness about the health benefits of EVOO, many homes have started using it in various recipes. 

From being used as a salad dressing to baking and even in desserts, EVOO has been adopted by many different cuisines worldwide, further amplifying its popularity.

The increased availability of EVOO has also played a significant role in its widespread use. With the invention of machines to press the olives and extract the oil, EVOO production has increased. 

The industrialisation of production, combined with accessiblepricing, has made it a very popular choice for people looking for healthy cooking oil.

How to Choose a High-Quality EVOO

To choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil, you should consider the following:

First, do your research. Check the brand's website, social media and label, it must say that the oil: 

• is obtained directly from olives and solely by mechanical means (ie. not chemical means like a refining process involving industrial dilutants like hexane etc.),

• comes from a single country and is not a mix of many different countries (does not say for example things like “made of oils of EU and non-EU origin”, but rather makes reference to a single country of origin),

• even within one country, it is best that the olive oil comes from a single source, a single region and even better a single grower within that region

• In our view, olive oils that originate in the heavily regulated EU countries (Spain, Greece, Italy etc.) generally have much higher quality and hygiene standards than the oils that originate in other countries.  The EU has also heavily subsidised its own countries to equip themselves with the best quality extraction and bottling machinery

• Olive oil purists tend to prefer single olive variety oils rather than blends of different varieties - any indication of the variety of olive (there are many different ones) used to make the oil is a big plus

• Any reference to olive oil industry awards is a good thing, as it means the oil has been tested and reviewed by panels of industry experts and product graders in this specific industry

• Any reference to the oil’s chemical analysis including information on facts such as oleic acidity, peroxide index and others is also a plus

• Any reference to antioxidants content is important too.  This is not often information found on labels, but the website and social media of the brand will be making reference to their levels and to whether they can make a legal health claim under EU law.

Choosing a high-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential in getting the most out of your diet.

Conclusion

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a popular healthy cooking staple in many households. It containsantioxidants and healthy lipids that offer numerous health benefits, including improving cardiovascular health, reducing inflammation, and helping with weight loss. 

It has become so popular due to its increased availability, affordability, and ability to be used in various recipes. EVOO is worth considering if you are looking for a healthy cooking oil.

Opus Live Well in London provides thebest quality olive oilfrom its source since ancient times. Their top-tier oil is fruity and of medium intensity. From everyday cooking to special occasions, it offers something for everyone. Discover the world of good quality, fine olive oil and discover the perfect oil for you.