Olives, a Heart Healthy Fruit

The oil in olives is the mostly monounsaturated fat called oleic acid. This fatty acid is extremely cardioprotective or “heart healthy” because it cuts your ‘bad’ cholesterol level, helps prevent atherosclerosis, and can help to increase your level of HDL, the ‘good’ cholesterol.

The oleuropein found exclusively in olives is an antioxidant (that is, it helps lower consequences from oxidative stress in our cells).

Olives are also considered to be anti-inflammatory, also of benefit to our cardiovascular health (another “heart healthy” benefit).

For more in depth information on the health benefits of olives check out this link:

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=46

Olives are well worth any effort you may need to make these wonderful fruits a part of your normal diet. Not only can you eat them as is from the jar or can but you can add them to a wide variety of recipes. Check out the many recipe links below.

Greek Salad

Soft Yogurt Cheese with Olives

Olive Tapenade

Chicken Cutlets With Mozzarella, Peppers and Olives

Gorgonzola and Olive Stuffed Grape Leaves

Fig and Olive Tapenade

Feta and Olive Meatballs

Greek Feta and Olive Spread

Do you have any favorite olive recipes or favorite ways you like to eat olives? Share in the comment section below.