Olives are the most widely enjoyed fruits of the Mediterranean region. They have a whole lot of nutritional value if consumed on a daily basis. As much as the focus is given more to the oil, the fruit itself is a winner for good health. The ‘olive revolution’ has embarked in India, and has a lot of benefits in store for you.
Olives serve as a good antioxidant and anti-inflammation source. Chronic inflammation and chronic oxidative stress are the key factors in the occurrence of cancer. Olives help avoid the inflammation, thus proving to be a might anti-cancer food. The high levels of monounsaturated fatty acid and oleic acid reduce chronic, excessive inflammation. These two compounds also work to neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals on the body’s cells.
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Since olives contain a good dose of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, it works as a protection against ulcers and gastritis. Olives activate the secretion of bile and pancreatic hormones, thereby reducing gallstone formation. One cup of olives contains 17% of daily allowance of fibre which promotes a healthy digestive tract.
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Olives are a super iron food. Our body feels cold or weak if we lack iron. Consuming olives help in the formation of haemoglobin, which is the protein that carries oxygen throughout the body via bloodstream.
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The free radicals in our body oxidize cholesterol, which damages blood vessels, building up fat in arteries, leading to a heart attack. The antioxidants in olives curb this oxidation and thus help prevent heart disease. The fat in olives is of the healthy monounsaturated kind which helps in increasing good cholesterol.
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A cup of olives contains the daily recommended allowance of vitamin A. This enables a better vision and allows a clearer distinguish between light and dark. Vitamin A is believed to be effective against cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma and other age-related ocular diseases.
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Olives are rich in fatty acids which are essential for hydration and nourishment. It contains massive amounts of vitamin E which helps protect skin from ultraviolet radiation, which further prevents skin cancer and premature aging.
Applying a few drops of Olive oil before going to bed will work wonders on your skin. It can be also used as a conditioner for hair or a moisturizer for skin.
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Disclaimer: “Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint,” said Mark Twain. Similarly, when suffering from health disorders, do not hesitate to visit a physician. Drag yourself there because often, no web-search is as useful as a physician’s advice!
