A perfect fit for a low carb life-style, olives are loaded with healthy monounsaturates.

The juice of the olive, otherwise known as olive oil, is a delicious source of antioxidants. This oil is monounsaturated, and it has a positive effect on the cholesterol level in our blood streams.

Monounsaturated fats are not considered “essential”, but they should be an important part of our diets. These oils act to keep cholesterol from sticking to our artery walls.

Not only that, but they help to control blood sugar, a big plus in a controlled carbohydrate diet.  After all, when the blood sugar is under control, so is the insulin.  And, insulin is a huge factor in our body’s ability to store food as fat.

Olives contain substances that are believed to help us to ward off cancer, polyphenols.  Polyphenols give the olive its taste and aroma. One of the polyphenols found in olives is thought to act as an anti-inflammatory.

Since ancient times, the calming and healing properties of olive and its oil have been recognized.   As a result, the olive branch has long been used as a symbol of peace.

Early Mideastern civilizations believed olives would cure every illness except death. To this day, many drink half a cup of olive oil before breakfast to keep themselves healthy.