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| Olive Oil |
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Review
Summary |
 Olive Oil is an oil derived from the olive fruit, which is believed to be a healthier alternative to vegetable-based oils, such as corn oil. Manufacturers have long asserted that this oil may promote a healthier lifestyle due to its high levels of monounsaturated fat and its polyphenol content, which is believed to be a good source of free radical-fighting antioxidants.
High cholesterol levels may be among the most prevalent health conditions affecting Americans today, as witnessed by the number of cases involving stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, diabetes and other health risks. We will examine the fruit-based oil in question to find out whether it may be useful for cholesterol reduction.
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| Ingredients at a Glance |
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The olive-based oil derives from trees that are believed to be native to Europe’s Mediterranean region, in countries such as Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Tunisia and Portugal. The oil may be available throughout the world in different grades, including pure, extra-virgin, virgin and more. Oils labeled “virgin” are believed to be among the highest quality in its class.
Said to be used for a variety of purposes, such as cooking, and in pharmaceutical products, the oil is touted for its high monounsaturated fat content, consisting mainly of Oleic Acid, and for its high levels of polyphenols. This oil is said to be a healthier alternative to other cooking oils, and, though consisting of high fat content, may be healthier than the saturated fats found in meats.
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| Ingredients in Focus |
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Some reports suggest that a diet consisting of this oil and low-fat foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, may reduce the risk of heart disease and related conditions, while reducing cholesterol levels. Some say that it may lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, but assist in regulating HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels, which may assist in keeping arteries clear.
The oil has also been advertised as making LDL cholesterol resistant to free radical damage, which may make the cholesterol stick to the arterial walls and cause clogging and congestion. Some say that polyphenols may offer additional support by reducing the risk of heart disease and even cancer and diabetes – claims which may not have been validated through studies.
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| Lifestyle |
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A lifestyle based on this fruit-based oil may be healthier than a diet with high saturated fat content, but the jury is still out on whether such a diet may promote weight loss. This seems to be because the oil in question, while relatively high in monounsaturated fat, may be high in calories as well. Dieters may wish to take this into consideration.
On the other hand, those who wish to lead a healthier lifestyle while keeping their cholesterol levels in check may prefer to consider natural supplements that contain Plant Sterols. These natural ingredients are believed to be capable of supporting cholesterol reduction by up to 40 percent without causing any side effects or requiring lifestyle adjustments.
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| Positives |
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• May contail polyphenols
• May be a healthier alternative to vegetable oils
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| Negatives |
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• May not reduce cholesterol by up to 40 percent
• Money-back guarantees may not be available
• Its cholesterol-reducing effects may not be backed by clinical studies
• Consumer testimonials may not reveal too many success stories
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| Final Thoughts |
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Olive Oil may be notable for its high monounsaturated fat and polyphenol content, but this ingredient in and of itself may not be enough to regulate cholesterol levels on a long-term basis. It may be a healthier alternative to corn and soy oils, but we believe some natural supplementation may provide the extra boost needed to keep cholesterol levels in check.
The aforementioned Plant Sterols have been shown in clinical studies to support cholesterol regulation without causing any adverse reactions. This may be important for determining whether a product will support both immediate and long-term results. Supplementation with Plant Sterol-based formulas may also enable men and women to eat some of their favorite foods.
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| Our
Editors Top Choice: |
Week
of: Tue Sep 07th, 2010 |
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CholesterClear®:
CholesterClear® -
Imagine lowering your Cholesterol levels while still being able to eat the foods you love. CholesterClear® is an awesome product which literally blocks the bad cholesterol from being absorbed by the body. It does this naturally and safely because it contains certified organic highly concentrated plant sterols which have been clinically proven to effectively block 42% of the cholesterol in your food from being digested. This substance has been approved by the FDA and American Medical Association as being effective in lowering and preventing high Cholesterol, LDL and HDL levels. With over 1200 published studies declaring it works, how can you go wrong with this? Prescriptions that fight Cholesterol levels also have some ugly negative side effects associated with them – so we recommend checking this product out because it has no side effects what-so-ever. Click Here to read our full review. |
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