The secret life of olives: A tasty boost to health and diet
Olives are synonymous with Mediterranean cuisine. We instantly think of them as a delicious addition to salads, pizza, or pasta. However, olives are also delightful on their own and make a perfect snack.
Olive trees, from which olives are harvested, are predominantly linked to the Mediterranean region. Yet, they are also grown in India, China, Australia, Mexico, the United States, and South America. Greek olives from the Kalamata region are considered among the finest. In shops, there is a wide selection of olives, available by weight or in jars or tins, either pitted or stuffed.
Olives - nutritional value
The nutritional value of olives is largely due to their healthy fats, primarily monounsaturated fatty acids. As a result, they positively affect the circulatory system and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Olives also contain antioxidants, such as vitamin E, polyphenols, and flavonoids. These substances protect cells from free radicals, slowing down the body's ageing process and reducing the risk of cancer. It's no surprise that olives and olive oil are significant in the diets of centenarians. The regions where the most people live to a good age are known as Blue Zones. One of these is the Greek island of Ikaria, where olives and olive oil are part of the daily diet.
Olives can help with weight loss
However, these are not the only remarkable benefits of olives. They can also aid in weight loss and reduce the craving for sweets. Olives contain fibre, which helps the digestive system work more efficiently and assists in regulating blood glucose levels. Thus, eating a few olives, particularly when you have a strong desire for sweets, can be enough. After having olives, the craving will often vanish. The feeling of satiety is also provided by the healthy fats. Nonetheless, it's important to remember that olives are calorie-dense, so a snack of 6 or 7 pieces should suffice.
