Do This to Lower Your Risk of Premature Death
Want to Dramatically Lower Your Risk of Death? Here’s How Olive Oil Can Help
When it comes to living a long and healthy life, the choices we make every day—especially what we eat—can significantly impact our well-being. A balanced, wholesome diet isn’t just about looking good; it’s about preventing the serious health conditions that claim lives far too soon, like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. But there’s one often-overlooked dietary hero that deserves your attention: olive oil.
This golden liquid has been a cornerstone of Mediterranean diets for centuries, and modern science is catching up to what the Greeks and Italians have known all along. Regularly consuming olive oil doesn’t just make your meals taste better—it can dramatically reduce your risk of death, particularly from cardiovascular disease, one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide.
Intrigued? Let’s dive into why olive oil is so powerful, what makes it different from other fats, and how you can start using it to support a longer, healthier life.
Why Olive Oil? The Science Behind the Health Boost
Not all fats are created equal. While some oils and fats—like trans fats or heavily processed vegetable oils—can wreak havoc on your health, olive oil is in a league of its own. Here’s why.
The Unique Composition of Olive Oil
Olive oil is primarily made up of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that packs a powerful health punch. Unlike saturated fats, which are linked to inflammation and high cholesterol, oleic acid has been shown to:
Reduce inflammation at a cellular level
Lower LDL cholesterol (the “bad” kind) that clogs arteries
Support brain health and metabolic function
But olive oil doesn’t stop there. It’s also loaded with polyunsaturated fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health, brain function, and bone strength.
Antioxidants: Olive Oil’s Secret Weapon
Beyond its healthy fat profile, olive oil is brimming with antioxidants. These natural compounds neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
One of the standout antioxidants in olive oil is oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory effects similar to ibuprofen. By reducing inflammation and protecting cells, olive oil supports a healthier body from the inside out.
Proven Health Benefits of Olive Oil
Still wondering if olive oil deserves a spot in your kitchen? Consider this list of proven benefits.
1. It’s a Heart Protector
Heart disease is the number one cause of death worldwide, but olive oil can help tip the scales in your favor. Studies consistently show that people who consume olive oil regularly have lower rates of heart disease and live longer, healthier lives. Here’s how olive oil protects your heart:
Reduces inflammation, a key driver of heart disease
Prevents the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which clogs arteries
Improves blood vessel function, ensuring smoother circulation
Lowers blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes
The Mediterranean diet, which is rich in olive oil, has been linked to better heart health and longevity. Coincidence? We think not.
2. It May Help Prevent Strokes
Strokes are another leading cause of death, claiming lives every day. Research shows that olive oil, as a rich source of monounsaturated fats, significantly lowers stroke risk. People who consume olive oil regularly are far less likely to suffer from a stroke compared to those who don’t.
3. It Fights Cancer
Free radicals are one of the major culprits behind cancer development, and olive oil’s antioxidants are up for the fight. These powerful compounds neutralize free radicals, reducing the damage they cause to cells. While no food is a magic bullet against cancer, studies suggest that olive oil can lower the risk of certain cancers, including breast and colon cancer.
4. It Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is at the root of many chronic diseases, from type 2 diabetes and arthritis to obesity and metabolic syndrome. Olive oil’s anti-inflammatory properties, driven by compounds like oleocanthal, can help keep chronic inflammation in check. It even reduces levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation linked to heart disease.
5. It’s Brain Food
The healthy fats in olive oil don’t just protect your heart—they also support your brain. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in olive oil, are essential for cognitive health, memory, and focus. Some studies even suggest that olive oil consumption could lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Is All Olive Oil Created Equal?
Here’s the truth: not all olive oil is the same, and buying the wrong kind could mean missing out on the benefits. To maximize your health gains, go for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Why? EVOO is the least processed type of olive oil, meaning it retains more of the natural antioxidants and bioactive compounds that make it so good for you.
But beware of fraud! Many oils labeled as “extra virgin” are diluted with refined or lower-quality oils. Always check the ingredients and look for certifications to ensure you’re getting the real deal.
How to Add Olive Oil to Your Diet
Incorporating olive oil into your meals is easier—and tastier—than you might think. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Ditch the Butter: Use olive oil as a healthier alternative for sautéing vegetables or pan-frying lean proteins.
Make It a Dip: Pair extra virgin olive oil with whole-grain bread for a delicious, nutrient-packed snack.
Upgrade Your Salads: Create homemade dressings with olive oil, vinegar, and fresh herbs for a flavorful, heart-healthy boost.
Drizzle It Over Roasted Veggies: Add a splash of olive oil before roasting vegetables for enhanced flavor and nutrients.
Infuse It: Combine olive oil with garlic, rosemary, or chili flakes for a custom blend that elevates any dish.
Why Stop at Olive Oil? Take Charge of Your Health Today
While adding olive oil to your diet is a powerful step toward better health, it’s just the beginning. At NowThryv, we focus on creating sustainable, personalized strategies to help you thrive—whether that means improving your energy, balancing your hormones, or tackling exhaustion without stimulants.
If you’re ready to go beyond the basics and take control of your health, let’s talk. Schedule your free discovery call today and start living a life filled with energy, clarity, and purpose. Your best self is waiting!
https://www.aboutoliveoil.org/12-surprising-health-benefits-of-olive-oil
https://www.kosterina.com/blogs/news/olive-oil-health-benefits
https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/good-food/olive-oils-health-benefits-and-why-you-should-add-it-to-your-diet/2024/04