Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, is widely regarded as a healthy addition to the diet.

Known for its high content of monounsaturated fats (MUFA), vitamins E and K, and powerful antioxidants, olive oil offers a range of health benefits, including protection against inflammation and oxidative stress.

According to Swati Sandhan, the chief dietician at Jupiter Hospital in Pune, the health properties of olive oil make it beneficial in preventing various lifestyle diseases, including heart problems, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and certain types of cancer, as reported by asianet.

The antioxidants found in olive oil play a key role in helping to protect the body from heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Just one teaspoon (about 5 ml) of olive oil contains approximately 40 calories and 4.6 grams of fat, the majority of which is heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, or MUFA.

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Additionally, olive oil is rich in essential vitamins such as vitamin E and vitamin K.

Olive oil also contains phenolic compounds that are known to help reduce the risk of heart disease. However, experts caution that overheating olive oil can destroy its antioxidants and potentially turn it harmful.

Health experts recommend consuming up to two tablespoons of olive oil daily for maximum health benefits. For the best quality, choose brands labeled "cold-pressed" and "extra virgin," as these indicate that the oil has been produced using minimal processing, preserving its nutritional value.

Incorporating olive oil into your daily diet could provide significant health advantages, but as with all oils, moderation is key.