Olive oil has long been associated with a number of health benefits, and recent research has shown that it can provide significant benefits for your liver as well.
What are the benefits of olive oil for Liver Health?
Olive oil is one of the healthiest oils on the planet. Not only is it rich in monounsaturated fats (MUFAs), but it also has been linked to improved liver function. Studies have found that olive oil, which is rich in antioxidants, can help reduce inflammation in the liver and protect it from damage caused by free radicals.
Olive oil's high levels of MUFAs can help reduce liver damage caused by oxidative stress. These healthy fats can also help metabolize fats and aid in the liver's detoxification process.
The shot that is actually good for you.
The health benefits of olive oil don't stop there. Studies have found that one tablespoon of olive oil daily can:
- Optimize glucose metabolism
- Lower fat lipids
- Lower Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) Risk
- Lower LDL (the “bad”) cholesterol
- Raise HDL (the “good”) cholesterol
- Lower cardiovascular risk
A cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet.
Olive oil has been known as a heart-healthy food. It is a staple in Mediterranean diets, and is widely considered to be one of the healthiest fats to consume. One of the reasons the Mediterranean diet is so good for your liver health is because it replaces the unhealthy fats of the Western diet with the healthy fats of the Mediterranean diet. It's no wonder why olive oil is a pillar of this diet!
How Much Olive Oil Should I Consume to Help Support My Liver Health?
Studies have found that consuming one tablespoon of olive oil a day can help support the health of your liver. As a general rule of thumb, as your consumption of olive oil increases compared to simple carbohydrates or sugars, your triglycerides will be better off in your liver and your blood. This is good because the fats in your liver are primarily triglycerides.Â
The easiest way to start incorporating olive oil into your diet is by primarily cooking with it. It may cost a little bit more, its smoke point may be a little bit lower, and its taste may not be neutral, but the liver health benefits of olive oil far outweigh these cons.
How to choose the best olive oil
When choosing olive oil, make sure to select one that is cold-pressed, organic, and extra-virgin for maximum benefits. Cold-pressed olive oil is the least processed, which means it retains more of the natural benefits and flavor of the olives. Additionally, organic olive oil is free of synthetic fertilizers and chemicals, and extra-virgin olive oil has the highest concentration of antioxidants.
Try getting the smallest bottle you can, because once you open it, it is exposed to oxygen, decreasing its quality.
Olive oil can be an incredibly beneficial addition to any diet, especially for those with liver diseases. Not only can it help reduce inflammation and protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, but it can also help improve the overall health of the liver. So if you're looking for a healthy way to support your liver, consider adding olive oil to your diet.
