Rich in Healthy Monounsaturated Fats

Olive oil is a major component of the Mediterranean diet. The main fat it contains is monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), which experts consider a healthful fat.

Olive oil is a natural oil derived from the fruit of the olive tree, olives. Saturated fat accounts for 14% of the oil, whereas polyunsaturated fats such as omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids account for 11%. However, oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that makes approximately 73% of the total oil content, is the most prevalent fatty acid in olive oil. According to studies, oleic acid decreases inflammation and may possibly have anti-cancer effects on genes. Extra virgin olive oil is a good choice for cooking since monounsaturated fats are resistant to high heat.