Diet Mail Diet Mail- June 2014, Summer Holidays Special | Page 8

FOOD OF THE MONTH

Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Did you know that countries where people use olive oil regularly, especially in place of other fats, have much
lower rates of heart disease, atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, and asthma? These countries enjoy a
Mediterranean-style diet, which studies continue to find is among the healthiest in the world. For example, one
study, which followed participants for over six years, discovered that those most closely following a

Mediterranean 'olive oil and salad' dietary pattern had a 50% reduced risk of overall mortality! Another
study published in the British Journal of Nutrition suggests that the naturally high concentration of
phenolic compounds with their antioxidant properties found in extra-virgin olive oil, (that is properly cold
pressed and stored in opaque containers), may be one of the key reasons for the lower incidence of cancer
and cardiovascular disease in the Mediterranean region. The monounsaturated fats in olive oil have also
been found to be used by the body to produce substances that are anti-inflammatory. By reducing
inflammation, these fats can help reduce the severity of arthritis symptoms and may be able to prevent
or reduce the severity of asthma. And not least of all, let's not forget olive oil's great flavor!

Mediterranean Dressing
Prep and Cook Time: 1 minute
Ingredients:
· 3 TBS extra virgin olive oil
· 1 TBS fresh lemon juice
· 1 clove garlic, minced
· sea salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Toss your favorite salad with the ingredients and serve.
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