Learn how classic olive oil can benefit your health.
Olive oil, in particular extra-virgin olive oil, is a versatile ingredient in Italian dining. At Giolitti Deli, we use olive oil on a wide range of menu items including appetizers, salads, pasta, and chicken to give them that extra boost of flavor. If you’re a fan of Italian food, you’re likely a fan of olive oil. But did you know that olive oil can improve your health? Olive oil not only tastes delicious and can be added to nearly any dish, but it has several health benefits that you can benefit from throughout your entire life.
Olive Oil Helps Prevent Heart Problems
Olive oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for preventing cardiovascular disease as the body transforms the acids into prostaglandins, which block inflammation and help regulate heart, liver, and kidney function. Olive oil is also an anti-inflammatory and can lower LDL cholesterol, which can clog arteries, and raise good HDL cholesterol and lower triglycerides. All of these factors are precisely what your heart needs to stay healthy.
It Can Help Prevent Disease
Olive oil is a high antioxidant food, and antioxidants reduce the harmful effects of free radicals, which contribute to the development of disease. Olive oil specifically contains a large amount of anti-cancer agents like squalene and terpenoids. The dominant fat in olive oil is oleic acid, and studies have shown that oleic acid is an anti-inflammatory compound that may be able to fight cancer due to its beneficial effects on the genes linked to cancer cells.
It Supports Brain Health and Fights Depression
The brain requires high levels of fatty acids to function properly, and since olive oil is high in those fatty acids, it can help us perform tasks and think clearly. The oil can also help improve our focus and memory and ward off age-related cognitive decline. Healthy fats have also shown the ability to balance hormones, which can help prevent neurotransmitter dysfunction, which in turn helps regulate moods and ward off depression.
It Helps with Weight Loss
Healthy fats in olive oil help control excess insulin, which helps control weight. Insulin is a hormone that controls blood sugar levels but also causes us to gain weight. These good fats in olive oil also reduce hunger, keep us feeling satisfied, and help control cravings and overeating.
How to Consume Enough Olive Oil
According to the FDA, consuming about two tablespoons of olive oil per day will serve you well. Extra-virgin olive oil is recommended due to its higher concentrations of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Make sure the label says estate-pressed and -bottled. The oil should be of a greenish tint, and if it’s a little cloudy, that means it is unfiltered.
This healthy oil makes a nice finishing touch for several meals, including warm soups, salads, a tomato, mozzarella, or raw and cooked vegetables.
Authentic Italian Cuisine From Giolitti Deli
Giolitti Deli is a full-service Delicatessen in Annapolis, MD, specializing in authentic Italian cuisine. Founded in 1992, we use the freshest ingredients to make time-honed recipes from scratch, with no MSG or preservatives. We believe in real food and offer many healthy options, including vegetarian and vegan menu items. At Giolitti Deli, we make our own sauces, mozzarella, grilled and roasted vegetables, bread, pizza dough, and desserts, and our sandwiches, salads, pasta, pizza, and entrees are made to order. Owner Mary Giolitti has combined her passion for great food and fine wine to offer Annapolis a true taste of Italy!
Team members who also make the business possible include Manager Kathy Hunter, Manager and Catering Director Cheryl Molesky, Head Baker Porfirio Diaz, Chef Alfredo Escobar, and Deli Manager Noe Merino. To contact us, please visit our contact page or give us a call at 410.266.8600. Also, be sure to keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and our blog!
Tags: health benefits, italian food, olive oil