The cooking oil aisle of the grocery store can be a downright overwhelming place.
What is extra-virgin olive oil?
Here’s what to know.
Health benefits:
In general, the healthiest oils are minimally processedand EVOO fits the bill.
One of the most researched of these polyphenols is oleocanthal, which has beenshown to have anti-inflammatory properties1.
It’s in good company, too; olive oil containsmore than 30 different phenolic compounds2.
“Oils that are unfiltered retain the highest amount of these phytochemicals.”
Most EVOOs in your average supermarket are filtered and contain fewer polyphenolsthough they’re certainly still beneficial!
Then there are the fats in EVOO.
Whether extra-virgin or not, olive oil contains primarilyheart-healthy monounsaturated fats3(specifically oleic acid).
EVOO’s benefitsdon’t end with heart health, either.
Research also suggests that EVOO may have protective benefits againstType 2 diabetes5,gut dysbiosis6, andcognitive decline7.
That said, you’re able to absolutely cook with EVOO.
Summary
What is regular (pure) olive oil?
Ready to feel a little tricked?
but is still a healthy staple to keep stashed in your pantry.
After six weeks, both groups showed an improvement in coronary health."
Depending on how you want to use your olive oil, this could be good news.
It means your dish won’t contain that powerful olive flavor.
Pure olive oil may be slightly more acidic than EVOO, as well, Nielsen notes.
Pure olive oil is usually more affordable than EVOO.
What about “light” olive oil?
As such, it’s also the lowest in polyphenols.
What’s the difference between EVOO and olive oil?
Want to maximize each of these oils in your kitchen?
But if you simply need an oil to balance things out, pure does the job too.
Hair and skin: EVOO
You already know that EVOO works wondersinyour bodybut what aboutonyour body?
Shopping tips.
No surprise here: The benefits you reap from a bottle of olive oil will depend on its quality.
You’ll also want to pay attention to its packaging.
Light causes the oil to oxidate, essentially stripping away some of its antioxidant benefits.
Once you’ve purchased an oil,follow these storage tipsto preserve its benefits for as long as possible.
Otherwise, extra-virgin olive oil is the healthier pick (though it does have a stronger flavor).
Is it OK to have extra-virgin olive oil every day?
In fact, it’s Caspero’s oil of choiceand one she recommends to clients all the time.
Is extra-virgin olive oil OK for frying?
Sinceregular olive oil has a higher smoke point, it’s your better bet for frying.
The takeaway.
When it comes to olive oils, EVOO is the star childand it’s certainly earned that reputation.
