The Gut-Healing Power of Olive Oil
Olive oil is a key component of the Mediterranean diet and is praised for its taste and versatility as well as its various health benefits. One of the key benefits is the significant impact on the well being of your gut. Olive oil is packed with monounsaturated fats, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties which have been proven through key research (linked in final paragraph) to promote a functioning digestive system in various ways. In this edition, we will explore the key gut benefits of incorporating high quality olive oil such as Zimms Organics in your daily diet.
Remember, quality is always key when consuming olive oil for health benefits. It's best to consume olive oil like Zimms Organics that meets the following standards:
- Certified organic
- Single origin (one farm)
- Single varietal (one kind of olive)
- High in polyphenols (above 300 mg/kg)
- Pressed without any chemicals or harsh solvents
- Pressed within 24 hours of harvesting (the less the better)
- Lab tested for EVOO standards (less than 0.8% oleic acid)
- Harvested within the last 18 months (the sooner the better)
- Bottled in dark glass
1. Supporting Digestive Health
Olive oil aids the digestive process by stimulating digestive enzymes. This is why we recommend taking a one tablespoon shot 15-20 minutes before your first meal. The texture and consistency of olive oil can also help repair the digestive tract by creating somewhat of an added layer of internal protection. This coating within your intestinal lining can help protect your GI tract from leaky gut (essentially tiny tears in your gut). With a healthy GI tract, food is easier to process and you'll have less risk of constipation. This layer also helps support a healthy and diverse microbiome (more on that later).
Key Points:
- Olive oil acts as a natural lubricant, helping to smooth the passage of food through the colon.
- Regular consumption can help prevent issues like constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
- Frequent olive oil consumption can help create a “protective lining” in your GI tract to prevent leaky gut, and give your body a healthy and diverse microbiome.
2. Reducing Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory properties of olive oil are well-documented (see key research outlined in final paragraph). Oleocanthal, an antioxidant found in olive oil, has been shown to function similarly to ibuprofen, reducing inflammation throughout the body, including the gut.
Key Points:
- Consuming olive oil can decrease the levels of inflammation in the gut, which is beneficial for conditions like IBS and Crohn's disease.
- The reduction in inflammation can also prevent the occurrence of gastrointestinal ulcers and gastritis.
3. Promoting Healthy Microbiota
Olive oil has a positive impact on the gut microbiome, the family of microorganisms that are found in the digestive tract. Its phenolic compounds promote the growth of beneficial bacteria while inhibiting harmful ones.
Key Points:
- By altering the gut microbiota, olive oil helps enhance the overall health and immune function of the digestive system.
- A healthy microbiota is key to improving digestion and nutrient absorption, which can bolster overall health.
4. Healing the GI Tract
Regular intake of olive oil has been linked to a lower risk of gastrointestinal tract diseases, including gastric cancer. The antioxidants in olive oil can reduce oxidative stress in the gut, which is a precursor to cellular damage and disease.
Key Points:
- Olive oil's protective effects can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases like gastric ulcers and gastric cancer.
- Its antioxidants combat free radicals, which are known to contribute to various forms of cancer.
5. Enhancing Nutrient Absorption
Olive oil improves the absorption of essential nutrients such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are fat-soluble. This enhances the nutritional value of foods eaten in conjunction with olive oil.
Key Points:
- Adding olive oil to vegetables increases the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins that are crucial for immune function, bone health, and blood clotting.
- Enhanced nutrient absorption supports overall health, particularly in maintaining strong immune and skeletal systems.
Conclusion: Integrating Olive Oil into Your Diet
Exploring the science behind how olive oil influences gut health reveals its importance beyond being just a kitchen staple. It serves as a key element for supporting and enhancing digestive well being. By including Zimms Organics Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) in your meals whether as a dressing, cooking oil or final touch, you enhance the flavor of your dishes whilst promoting a healthier gut. Embrace the Mediterranean way of life and make olive oil a part of your daily eating routine, for overall wellness.
Further Reading and Research
If you're interested in learning more about how olive oil benefits gut health, the article "Is Olive Oil Good for Your Gut?" Everyday Health delves into a study that shows how consuming olive oil can positively affect the balance of bacteria in your gut, boost your digestive system and reduce inflammation. This article is a resource for those wanting to understand the basis behind olive oil's impact on digestive health and get practical advice on incorporating more olive oil into their diet for a healthier gut.
The Zimms Organics Difference
Experience the profound benefits of olive oil for your gut health by incorporating your Zimms Organics EVOO into your daily diet. Your olive oil is a staple for flavorful cooking and a powerhouse for digestive health, rich in antioxidants that can soothe and protect your gastrointestinal tract.
Subscribe & Save:
Don't miss out on our Subscribe & Save offer! Head over to our product pages for COOK or HEAL large bottles and save 25% with a subscription. You can choose deliveries every 15 or 30 days and cancel anytime. Ensure you never run out of high quality olive oil and maintain a consistent intake to support your overall wellness.