Few ingredients have garnered as much attention and praise as olive oil in the vast landscape of natural remedies and dietary choices. Valued for its rich history, delightful flavour, and myriad health benefits, this golden medicine is more than just a kitchen staple; it’s a ticket to holistic well-being.

The saying goes, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but recent research might have us tweaking that adage to include a tablespoon of olive oil. From improving cardiovascular health to bolstering brain function, let’s dive into the various diseases this simple, daily olive oil can help ward off.

1. Lower your risk of heart disease

Olive oil can help lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation, both risk factors for heart disease. A study found that people who consumed the most olive oil had a 19% lower risk of heart disease than those who consumed the least olive oil.

2. Prevent Stroke

Olive oil can help prevent strokes by improving blood flow to the brain. A study showed that people who consumed the most olive oil had a significantly lower risk of stroke than those who consumed the least olive oil.

3. Lower your risk of colorectal cancer

Olive oil contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage, which can lead to cancer. A study published in a reputed journal found that people who consumed the most olive oil had a markedly lower risk of developing colorectal cancer than those who consumed the least olive oil.

4. Improve your cognitive function

Olive oil can help improve cognitive function and memory, which are important for preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Experts view that people who consumed the most olive oil had a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than those who consumed the least olive oil.

5. Regulate your blood sugar levels and prevent Diabetes Type 2 

Olive oil can help regulate blood sugar levels, which is important for preventing type 2 diabetes. A study found that people who consumed the most olive oil had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who consumed the least olive oil.

6. Reduce your risk of developing Depression

Olive oil can help improve mood and reduce anxiety, both of which are symptoms of depression. It was found that people who consumed the most olive oil had a lower risk of developing depression than those who consumed the least olive oil.

7. Relieve arthritis pain

Olive oil can help reduce inflammation, which can help relieve the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. A study has shown that people who consumed the most olive oil had a markedly lower risk of developing arthritis than those who consumed the least olive oil.

8. Weight loss

Olive oil can help you feel full and satisfied, which can help you eat less and lose weight. It was found that people who consumed the most olive oil lost more weight than those who consumed the least olive oil.

If you want a healthy way to improve your diet, olive oil is a great option. Just one tablespoon a day can help you.

The Bottom Line

Embracing a holistic approach to health often means focusing on simple yet profound dietary changes, and incorporating olive oil into our daily routine is a testament to this philosophy.

The evidence is compelling: with each spoonful, we’re not just enhancing the flavour of our dishes but potentially fortifying our defences against a multitude of diseases. Whether drizzling it over a fresh salad, blending it into a smoothie, or even taking it straight, that one tablespoon of olive oil could be the daily dose of prevention your body and mind have been craving.

So, next time you reach for that bottle in your pantry, remember you’re holding a powerhouse of health benefits, just a pour away.