Why not kick off 2024 on a healthy note! 

Did you know there are many health advantages of both Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) and tables olives? Let us share a few interesting facts with you.

Both offer various benefits due to their rich nutritional profiles and can easily be added to any diet; top your favourite pizza with olives before baking, drizzle a good amount of EVOO over any salad, or simply, fry your juicy steak in EVOO – the possibilities are endless.

EVOO is a hero ingredient for the health of your heart, digestion, and bones, among others.  Here’s a snapshot of some of the key benefits of this liquid gold.

Heart Health: Because EVOO is a monounsaturated fat, studies have shown that it can help in reducing reduce the risk of heart disease as it improves cholesterol levels and assists in lowering blood pressure.

Digestive Health: EVOO can be considered a mild laxative as it is known to assist in promoting digestive health and can also help to prevent constipation.

Weight Management: Including moderate amounts of EVOO in your diet may help with weight management, as it can contribute to feeling full.

Rich in Antioxidants: EVOO contains compounds like polyphenols and vitamin E, which act as antioxidants. These substances help neutralize free radicals in the body, protecting cells from damage.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties:  Because of the presence of antioxidants, these help to reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to various health issues, including heart disease and cancer.

Similarly, incorporating table olives into your diet has its own advantages, and like EVOO, some of its benefits include heart and digestive health.

Rich in Antioxidants: Olives are a good source of antioxidants, and these compounds assist in combating oxidative stress.

Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in table olives may have a protective effect against certain types of cancers by preventing DNA damage and inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

Bone Health: Table olives contain minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones and may help prevent conditions like osteoporosis.

Let’s make 2024 the year to start being conscious about eating healthier. If you plan to meal prep your weekly dinners ahead of time, or simply to try out some new dishes, then be sure to reach for a bottle of EVOO, or a pack of table olives when you are next in the supermarket. As with anything, however, and while both EVOO and olives offer health benefits, moderation is key.

When purchasing your bottle of EVOO, make sure to choose a bottle that displays the SA Olive Commitment to Compliance” (CTC) seal, which assures that the product is authentic high quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil and 100% produced in South African.