Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Nutrition Information and Health Benefits
20250711 | Food Analyzer| Category: Food & Nutrition
No food data available for this post.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Explore the impressive nutritional advantages of this remarkable pantry staple
Nutritional Benefits
Extra virgin olive oil is not just a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, it’s also a key nutritional powerhouse. The apparent simplicity of its composition belies the wealth of nutrients it holds. It has been linked with a multitude of health benefits, including the prevention of heart disease, cancer as well as providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection.
Key Nutrient Implications
Notably, a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil delivers 119 calories, 13.5 grams of fat, and substantial amounts of two key vitamins: 1.9 micrograms of Vitamin E and 8.1 micrograms of Vitamin K. Vitamin E plays a big role in improving cell health and fighting inflammation, while Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone health. Despite its minimal iron content, every little bit contributes to important functions like oxygen transport and energy production in your body.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 119
Protein: 0g
Carbs: 0g
Fat: 13.5g
Vitamin E: 1.9
Vitamin K: 8.1
Iron: 0.08
Balanced Diet Integration
Extra virgin olive oil fits seamlessly into a balanced diet. Thanks to its high content of mono-unsaturated fats, it promotes heart health and aids in the absorption of other nutrients. You can use it for cooking, baking, dressings, dips and more. Emphasizing moderation ensures you can enjoy its benefits without going overboard on calories.
Health Considerations
It’s worthy to note that while it offers numerous benefits, extra virgin olive oil is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation, especially if you're monitoring your caloric intake. Consuming too much fat- even the healthy type- can still contribute to weight gain. Therefore, using it as a substitute for unhealthy fats rather than simply adding it into your diet will yield the most benefits.