The Health Benefits of Olive Oil: Why It’s Called “Liquid Gold
Few ingredients have earned the global respect that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) holds. Beyond its rich, golden flavor, olive oil is a foundation of the Mediterranean diet — a lifestyle praised by nutritionists and doctors alike for promoting longevity and wellness.
🌿 1. Heart Health: Backed by Decades of Research
The American Heart Association notes that replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats, like those found in olive oil, can help reduce cholesterol and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
In a landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (PREDIMED study, 2013), participants who followed a Mediterranean diet rich in extra virgin olive oil experienced a 30% lower risk of major heart-related events compared to those on a low-fat diet.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, olive oil’s high concentration of monounsaturated fats and polyphenols helps reduce inflammation, improve blood vessel function, and support healthy blood pressure.
🧠 2. Brain Function & Cognitive Health
Olive oil’s benefits go beyond the heart — they extend to the mind.
A 2022 study from Yale School of Public Health found that people who regularly consumed extra virgin olive oil had better cognitive function and slower memory decline with age. Researchers attribute this to olive oil’s antioxidant compounds, which help protect brain cells from oxidative stress.
✨ 3. Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant Power
Registered dietitian Dr. Mary Flynn of Brown University explains that EVOO’s polyphenols act as natural anti-inflammatory agents, helping the body fight off chronic inflammation — a root cause of diseases such as arthritis and diabetes.
In fact, some experts refer to oleocanthal (one of olive oil’s main compounds) as a “natural ibuprofen,” because it mimics the pain-reducing effects of anti-inflammatory drugs (Harvard Health Blog, 2020).
🍽️ 4. Supports Digestion & Gut Health
Olive oil has also been linked to improved digestive balance.
A 2021 article in Medical News Today cited studies showing that the oil’s polyphenols encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, while its lubricating properties help protect the digestive lining and support nutrient absorption.
💫 5. Beauty & Longevity from the Inside Out
According to Dr. Nicholas Perricone, dermatologist and author of The Perricone Prescription, olive oil’s antioxidants — particularly vitamin E and hydroxytyrosol — help prevent premature skin aging and support elasticity.
The healthy fats also promote hydration, giving your skin that Mediterranean glow from the inside out.
🌻 In Short: A Simple Ingredient, A Powerful Habit
Incorporating 1–2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil each day — whether in salad dressings, over vegetables, or as a bread dip — can have powerful effects on your long-term wellness.
At Dos Olivos Markets, we believe that every bottle of olive oil tells a story — from the sun-drenched groves of Spain to your kitchen table. Taste the difference that purity and craftsmanship make.
Shop our collection of premium Spanish olive oils:
👉 https://dosolivosmarkets.com/collections/olive_oil