Olive Oil

Olive Oil, widely used in Mediterranean cuisines, comes from the olive tree and has been cultivated for more than 9,000 years. The origin of this impressive tree is not very clear, with some scholars assuming the plant originated in Asia Minor, while others proclaim is hails from the Sinai Peninsula. Olive oil is a product of the olive tree, produced when the fruit is pressed or grinded into a pulp. Olive oil is perhaps the most common type of oil used in cooking today, and is also used to make cosmetics, soaps, lamp oil and pharmaceuticals. The ancient Greeks used olive oil extensively, as did the Romans. Today, olive trees are cultivated around the world, with California and China being two major producers of this tree and fruit. With this said, Italy and Spain remain two major producers as well.

Key Nutrients

Olive Oil contains a high amount of vitamin K and vitamin E. Olive oil also is an excellent source of omega fatty acids, namely linoleic (omega 6) and linolenic acid (omega 3). While high in fat content, olive oil has a very low amount of saturated fatty acids.

Health Benefits

Vitamin E – Research has shown that vitamin E possesses anti-inflammatory effects that can combat arthritis, rheumatism, asthma, and other inflammatory disorders linked to chronic inflammation. Vitamin E also improves the body’s metabolic function.

Vitamin K – Vitamin-K plays an important role in bone metabolism by promoting osteotrophic activity in bone cells. Vitamin K also acts to clot open wounds and prevent excessive bleeding. Healthy vitamin K levels lower the release of the glycoprotein interleukin-6, a marker of inflammation within the body.

Omega Fatty Acids – Omega fatty acids are unsaturated fatty acids which help reduce the risk of stroke and promote healthy heart and circulatory functions.

Season

Olive Oil can be found in any supermarket or food retail store year round.

Nutrition Information

Per 1 Tablespoon ( 13.5 grams):

Calories (cKal): 119
Protein (grams): 0
Total Fat (grams): 13.5
Carbohydrates (grams): 0
Fiber (grams): 0

Buying and Storing

When buying olive oil, make the sure oil is 100% certified made from olives. Being a shelf stable oil, store olive oil for up to six months in your kitchen.

Best Way to Add to Diet

Olive oil makes a great cooking oil as well as base to any salad dressing. In fact, olive oil can be used as a substitute in any recipe which calls for a cooking oil.