Olives are ideally small fruits found in the olive trees and have a maximum vitamin E concentration of vitamin e. Additionally, other potent antioxidants are present in them, which are beneficial to the heart and might even fight off cancer or osteoporosis. The healthy fats found in olives are mainly used to extract olive oil. Additional, it is an integral part of the exceptionally healthy Mediterranean diet. Olives are generally added to sandwiches and salads, among other dishes. In addition, they are prominent as a snack and a crucial element in stews and other dishes. The cultivation of olive trees is around for at least 7000 years.
There are several types of olives, but one can generally divide them into green olives and black olives. The green and black olives are not too different from each other, but they have some different macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
Benefits of eating olives
Fights cancer
Olives have a massive concentration of antioxidants that can help reduce cancer risk. Furthermore, experts say that antioxidants help prevent the uncontrollable growth of cancer cells.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Olives and olive oil have substantial anti-inflammatory properties. They help reduce strong immune responses in the body, as reactions result in inflammation. Unfortunately, inflammation for a long time can be harmful, and it can lead to diseases like arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, etc. Experts say that olives’ antioxidants like oleic acid help to a great extent in reducing inflammation.
Enhancing cardiovascular health
Olives mainly reduce the chance of developing heart disease. You can use olive oil in your diet because it suits your heart health. It protects against all heart diseases. Experts say that unsaturated fats present in olive oil might decrease the risk of heart diseases like stroke. It also reduces cholesterol storage in the body and the risk of inflammation besides preventing blockage of arteries.
Strengthens your bones
Some phytochemicals present in olive oil and olives help in preventing bone loss. The olive oil supplements better inflammation and decreases oxidative stress. Also, olives help significantly improve the gripping power joint discomfort if you have arthritis. It would be best to have a diet rich in olives to reduce the fracture rate.
Antioxidant-rich
Antioxidants in the diet can help reduce the chance of developing chronic ailments. High levels of radicals in the body can lead to oxidative stress. Due to this, it damages the cells and tissues. Oxidative stress can also cause diseases like heart disease and cancer. Olives are high in antioxidants that provide health advantages. For instance, antioxidants help in reducing inflammation and micro growth inhibition. Furthermore, consuming the pulpy residue from olives increases glutathione.
Antibacterial properties
Some antioxidants in olives and olive oil help in biological activity and also help in reducing your chance of developing chronic ailments. Furthermore, they can help in reducing inflammation and cholesterol levels. Additionally, olives might reduce the risk of heart disease also. Again, olive oil produces different anti-bacterials that prevent or eliminate dangerous microorganisms.
Helps with depression
Experts say that people who consume unhealthy food are likely to develop depression. For instance, consuming food rich in trans fat or packaged baked products leads to depression.
Improves brain health
Oxidative damage to the brain also leads to Alzheimer’s, and excess free radicals produced in your body can damage the brain tissues, which might lead to several systems like memory loss and confusion.
Risks of olives
Weight gain
Olives generally have a lot of sodium which leads to weight gain. A diet with excessive sodium can lead to bloating.
Allergies
Allergies to olives are infrequent, but you might experience allergies if you are allergic to pollen and consume raw olives.
Hence this is all you need to know about olives.