Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Health Benefits

    Did you know that the first step to lowering your cholesterol can be as simple as switching from butter to heart healthy Olive Oil. Olive Oil is an important source of antioxidant polyphenols and Vitamin E. Unlike many other types of oil, Olive Oil undergoes minimal amounts of processing to preserve taste; this also preserves all of the health and nutritional benefits found in olives. The high levels of antioxidants properties promote many healthy effects in both health preservation and disease prevention. Some polyphenol antioxidants inhibit occurrence of tumors, as well as have been known to have damaging effects on reactive oxygen species associated with colon and breast cancers. Olive Oil also has many anti-inflammatory benefits that are associated with lower rates of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. Anti-inflammatory compounds, such as oleocanthal, produce a similar effect to ibuprofen. Daily consumption of Olive Oil may prevent inflammation.  Olive Oil has been shown to: - fight infectious disease - fight heart disease - fight colon cancer - fight breast cancer - prevent skin damage - fight free radicals - lower LDL (bad) cholesterol - raise HDL (good) cholesterol - promote intestinal health - promote respiratory health - reduce inflammation - lower blood pressure - help reduce brain plaque associated with Alzheimer’s

    Balsamic Vinegar has most of the nutrients present from the grapes it was made from such as iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, phosphorus and magnesium and many antioxidants. Antioxidants from Balsamic Vinegar destroy free radicals that damage cell membranes, causing premature aging and hardening of the arteries. Balsamic Vinegar has also been known to fight cancer. The grapes that are used contain a bioflavonoid called quercetin. Along with Vitamin C, quercetin strengthens the immune system to fight cancer, infectious diseases and inflammation. Like Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar also contains anticancer agent polyphenols. Balsamic Vinegar is extremely low in saturated fats, if any, and is believed to reduce cholesterol which reduces the risks of heart attack. Since it is low in sodium, it enhances heart health and reduces high blood pressure. Consuming Balsamic Vinegar on a daily basis also enhances insulin sensitivity, therefore giving a better control over Diabetes.  Balsamic Vinegar has been shown to: - fight cancers - reduce risk of heart attack - strengthen immune system - fight infection - control Diabetes - relieve pain - assist digestion - strengthen bones - prevent anemia - fight aging - suppress appetite