Can you take olive oil?

Are you an olive oil enthusiast who loves drizzling it over salads or dipping bread in it? Are you wondering if you can consume olive oil directly to reap its health benefits? Let’s find out!

What is Olive Oil?

Olive oil is a liquid fat extracted from olives, which are fruits of the Olea europaea tree. It has been a part of Mediterranean cuisine for centuries and is known for its numerous health benefits.

Nutritional Value

Before we determine if you can take olive oil, let’s take a look at its nutritional value per 100 grams:

Nutrient Amount
Calories 884
Fat 100 g
–Saturated Fat 14 g
–Monunsaturated Fat 73 g
–Polyunsaturated Fat 11 g

As the table suggests, olive oil contains high levels of healthy fats that are essential for maintaining our bodily functions.

Health Benefits of Olive Oil

Yes, olive oil does have some outstanding health benefits. Here are some:

  1. Antioxidant Properties – The phenolic compounds present in extra-virgin olive oil act as antioxidants that protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
  2. Anti-inflammatory Effects – The monounsaturated fatty acids present in virgin olive oil reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
  3. Cardiovascular Health – Regular consumption of virgin olive oil lowers LDL cholesterol aka ‘bad’ cholesterol and reduces blood pressure levels.

These incredible properties spark the question: “Can I gulp down a spoonful?”

Is Direct Consumption Safe?

Unfortunately, no clear answer exists to this question as it depends upon individual circumstances like allergies or tolerance towards flavorsome oils.

Excessive Intake Side Effects

Direct consumption of large quantities of extra virgin olive oil may cause some side effects like:

  1. Diarrhea
  2. Nausea
  3. Vomiting

These effects are aided by the high levels of antioxidants which can be difficult for your gut to metabolize.

If you’re an athlete, individual with a routine workout and have a sensitive stomach consuming too much olive oil directly may not bode well with their system.

Recommended Dosage

For regular usage, one should stick to drizzling over foods or salads — 2-3 tablespoons per day is recommended in any meal for optimal health benefits.

Bottom Line

While there’s no harm in consuming moderate amounts (tablespoon or two) indirectly , excessive direct consumption as a daily ritual is not advisable. Instead, sticking to what nature intended – spooning it into our cooking where we need precise oils such as low-fat dishes will let us cautiously enjoy its advantages without risking negative outcomes.

Love olive oil? Great! But don’t forget moderation is key when it comes to its consumption.

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