Olive oil has long been an indispensable product in the kitchens of Mediterranean countries, where it is used to prepare a wide variety of dishes.. It is not surprising that this oil is often called “liquid gold”, because it not only gives dishes a special taste, but also has many beneficial properties.. But how to choose quality olive oil and what to consider when purchasing this product?

History of the Origin of Olive Oil Olive oil has a long history that dates back more than six thousand years.. Olive trees were first common in Egypt and other Asian countries.. Later, the Phoenicians brought them to Greece, and from there the trees spread throughout Italy and Spain.. The Greeks began to actively use olives and produce oil from them, which became extremely valuable and was even used as currency.

Health Benefits Olive oil not only adds flavor to dishes, but also has positive health effects. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, which help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.. This makes it an excellent choice for preventing cardiovascular disease.. Olive oil also helps improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, strengthens bone and muscle tissue, and the vitamins contained in the oil fight harmful free radicals.

How to choose quality olive oil?

When choosing olive oil, it is important to pay attention to its origin and production method. There are two types of oil: refined and unrefined. Refined oil is subjected to high temperature treatment, which reduces its beneficial properties.. Unrefined oil, especially cold-pressed oil, is considered the most useful, as it retains all vitamins and microelements.

There are several categories of unrefined olive oil. " " You should also avoid oils labeled “mix” as these may be mixtures where the olive oil content is minimal.

How to store and use olive oil?

In order for the oil to retain its beneficial properties, it must be stored properly.. Olive oil should be kept in a dark, cool place in a tightly closed container.. It is best to buy oil in glass containers, as plastic can degrade the quality of the product. Olive oil tends to freeze at low temperatures, and this does not mean that it is spoiled. The flakes that form during cooling disappear when the oil returns to room temperature.

Uses of olive oil in other areas Olive oil can be used not only in cooking, but also for skin and hair care.

For example, it effectively helps with leg cramps, and a massage with olive oil improves blood circulation and helps eliminate toxins. The oil is also used for cosmetic purposes, moisturizing and nourishing the skin, and its antiseptic properties make it an excellent component for preparing homemade face and hair masks.

Thus, olive oil is not only a tasty and healthy product, but also a real universal helper in everyday life.. When choosing it, be sure to pay attention to quality to get maximum health benefits.

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