Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the highest quality olive oil made from the fresh juice of the olive without the use of chemicals or heat. This cold-pressed method results in a darker, more flavorful product that provides substantial benefits for autoimmunity and inflammation. EVOO is a staple in the autoimmune protocol diet, so keep reading to learn more about olive oil benefits; plus, find out which olive oil is the best and why!
Olive Oil Benefits
- Regulatory T Cells
Autoimmune disorders are the result of Regulatory T cells not regulating the body’s immune system as they should. These cells, or the “police cells,” are relied on to suppress the immune response when it isn’t needed and prevent autoimmunity (when the immune system starts to attack itself). Olive oil contains compounds called fatty acids that T-cells need in order to be produced and function correctly.
- Oleic Acid
One of the specific fatty acids found in EVOO is oleic acid. It is classified as an Omega-9 unsaturated fatty acid with significant anti-microbial properties, which means it helps defend against harmful toxins. Issues such as leaky gut and chronic inflammation are at the very heart of autoimmune conditions, which can be traced back to the buildup of toxins in the gut, which is why oleic acid is so important for the gut-immune barrier.
- Polyphenols
The benefits of olive oil also include anti-inflammatory properties due to compounds called polyphenols. As an antioxidant, polyphenols help to prevent and reduce oxidative stress. Additionally, they can regulate your immune response by reducing pro-inflammatory chemicals such as arachidonic acid, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes. These enzyme reactions in your cells are directly linked to increased inflammation and autoimmune activity.
- The Mediterranean Diet Effect
The overall effects of the Mediterranean diet are known for improving gut health, as it focuses on protein, fatty fish rich in Omega 3s, and healthy fats such as olive oil. This anti-inflammatory diet encourages eating fresh and whole foods and cooking with spices and EVOO instead of smothering food in heavy sauces. Introducing olive oil into your diet can have long-term benefits not just for your gut health but also for your heart and brain!
EVOO: Food or Supplement?
So, does olive oil work as a food or a supplement? The answer is yes — both! EVOO is what we call a “functional food,” meaning that it can have beneficial effects beyond standard nutrition. However, all olive oil is not created equal, so it’s important to look for labels that mention high polyphenol count. Polyphenol levels less than 120 mg/kg are considered low, between 120 and 220 mg/kg medium, and anything higher than 220 mg/kg high. To get the maximum benefit from EVOO, you’ll want to choose a more intense and robust olive oil with a high polyphenol count, and we have the best EVOO brand in stock on our website!
An Olive Oil Recommendation For You
Una Vida EVOO is a premium olive oil with a 394 polyphenol count and is produced from 100% Hojiblanca olives grown in the desert of Andalusia in Southern Spain. The intense sunlight and optimal conditions result in a superior olive oil not only in composition but also in flavor. The moderately intense flavor is characterized by fruitiness with a slight bitterness and peppery finish while producing an aroma reminiscent of fresh-cut grass, apple, and tomato. “Una Vida” stands for “one life”, a reflection of the philosophy that you only have one life, so make the most of it with the best possible foods! If you want a great deal on our Una Vida EVOO, use code EVOO15 at checkout. We're offering 15% off this incredible product!
Stock up on Una Vida EVOO, and don’t hesitate to get in touch with our autoimmune specialists if you have questions about olive oil benefits or are curious about the effects of an AIP diet for your autoimmune condition! Be sure to use code EVOO15 at checkout to save 15%!
