Tag: Olive oil

According to a 2024 study published in *JAMA Network Open*, higher olive oil intake was linked with a lower risk of dementia-related mortality. But is putting olive oil in your coffee healthy, or is the viral trend just another passing fad?

According to a study published in *Food Chemistry*, oils rich in polyunsaturated fats can form harmful compounds when heated to high temperatures, making it critical to know what oils should you not fry with. The choice of oil can affect not only the flavor and texture of your food but also its nutritional quality and safety.

With the average Western diet having an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio as high as 15:1, understanding the fat content of our foods is crucial for health. But when it comes to olives, a staple of the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet, the question remains: are olives high in omega-3 or 6? The answer, as it turns out, is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no.

Scientific studies show that olive oil is predominantly a monounsaturated fat, with oleic acid making up the majority of its content. While it contains small amounts of polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids, labeling olive oil as an omega-6 is inaccurate. This distinction is crucial for understanding its unique health benefits.

According to the USDA, a standard tablespoon of olive oil contains about 14 grams of fat and 120 calories. While this is a high concentration, the key takeaway is the type of fat involved, which is primarily the beneficial monounsaturated kind.

According to a study published in the journal 'LWT', duck fat has a unique fatty acid composition with high levels of unsaturated fats compared to other animal fats. This surprising fact challenges common assumptions, prompting the question: is duck fat healthier than oil, or is its reputation merely based on flavor?

Overheating oils past their smoke point can destroy beneficial nutrients and create harmful compounds. This crucial point raises the question: does a higher smoke point mean a healthier oil, or are other factors more important for your well-being?

According to a 2018 study, extra virgin olive oil demonstrated higher oxidative stability when heated compared to many other common cooking oils. This dispels the common myth that cooking with olive oil is unhealthy and should be avoided at high temperatures.

One tablespoon of olive oil contains approximately 119 to 120 calories, and this calorie count remains consistent whether the oil is raw or cooked. This is because the process of heating olive oil does not significantly alter its energy density. The key to controlling the calories added when cooking with olive oil lies in mindful portion management and understanding how much oil your food absorbs.

According to the American Heart Association, replacing bad fats with good fats from sources like natural oils is a heart-smart choice. Natural oils are extracted from plants, seeds, nuts, and fruits, providing a simple yet powerful way to nourish your body inside and out. From enhancing culinary dishes to revitalizing hair and skin, the examples of natural oils are incredibly varied and effective.