Not only are they a great addition to dishes, but they can also have a positive impact on our health. Usually, more attention is paid to the oil produced from them, but let’s not forget that this popularity is due to the wonderful properties of olives. We have found as many as six reasons why we should reach for these delicious savoury snacks as often as possible!

1. Cardio-vascular benefits

Olives contain a healthy monounsaturated fat, the consumption of which contributes to reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and increasing ‘good’ cholesterol levels. Research has also shown that monounsaturated fat as part of the diet can help lower blood pressure

2. Assistance with weight loss

This feature of olives, combined with a balanced  diet and physical activity, helps to get rid of troublesome belly fat. A diet rich in monounsaturated fats increases blood levels of leptin, the so-called satiety hormone that makes us feel full.

3. Cancer prevention

Olives’ antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make them our natural ally in the fight against cancer. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation may be key factors in the progression of cancer.

Olives are an excellent source of vitamin E. This vitamin has an excellent ability to neutralise free radicals in fat tissue.

Free radicals can cause oxidation, damage the cell’s mitochondria and prevent the cell from producing energy. If a cell’s DNA is damaged, it can mutate and turn into a cancer cell. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties support the reduction of cancer risk.  All thanks to the vitamins!

4. Analgesic properties of olives

Green olives orKalamata olives provide us with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients that can act as a natural painkiller – they are a natural remedy for migraines! Olives also contain oleocenthal, a natural anti-inflammatory substance, and also protect our nerve fibres thanks to the phospholipids.

5. Probiotic properties of olives

Are olives good for the digestive system? Of course! All thanks to the way we consume them on a daily basis in fermented form! Olives thus have all the benefits of pickles: beneficial effects on the digestive system, bacterial flora and immunity. Frequent consumption of vitamin E and monounsaturated fats in black olives supports prevention and digestive function Olives also have a beneficial effect on ulcers and gastritis. When used as a regular part of the diet, antioxidants make many vegetables and fruits more easily absorbed when consumed. Residents of Mediterranean countries are statistically healthier for a reason and suffer less frequently from obesity and cardiovascular disease than we do. Therefore, it is worth adding to our diet the ingredients that have accompanied them for centuries, so that, like them, we can enjoy good health for many, many years to come.