Lemon juice and olive oil are ingredients that appear in many of our favorite dishes. But did you know that the two, when combined, have tremendous health benefits? On its own, lemon juice supports everything from weight loss to improved skin clarity, and nutritional and wellness value of olive oil it is well known. Together, however, their impact is amplified. Read on to learn how (and why) incorporating the combination of olive oil and fresh lemon juice can improve your health.
What are the health benefits of olive oil?
Olive oil has a rich history. Cleopatra’s famous golden glow is believed to be the result of bathing in olive oil. The ancient Greeks viewed the olive as a “sacred fruit,” and the Romans associated olive oil with elite society and consumed the liquid to prolong longevity. Nicknamed the “golden nectar of the gods”, This rich source of healthy fats and antioxidants It has been a coveted commodity for centuries. Today, it remains a staple of the Mediterranean diet. These are some of the reasons why olive oil is so special.
it’s full of polyphenols
Just one teaspoon of olive oil, specifically, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), provides a abundance of polyphenols, which are natural bioactive compounds whose antioxidant properties promote well-being. This is good news for those experiencing age-related bone loss. Why? Because according to recent research, polyphenols in olive oil help maintain bone health helping to keep oxidative stress under control. In addition, animal studies reveal that the intake of certain polyphenols has produced positive effects on bone mass, resulting in greater strength. In other words, high-quality olive oil polyphenols help promote bone health as part of a well-rounded healthy diet.
Promotes heart health
Did you know that Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of premature death worldwide.? It’s a sad but true statistic. the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the deadly disease claims an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. Curiously, the populations residing in the Mediterranean regions have low death rates from heart disease. While this is likely due to a combination of factors, it is believed that their high EVOO consumption plays a role.
These are not the only data that suggest the importance of olive oils in maintaining cardiovascular health. In a 2014 review study, researchers found that participants who consumed the most olive oil were nearly 10 percent less likely to have heart problems compared to participants who ate less olive oil. While additional conclusive research is needed, the science around olive oil so far is promising.
Has anti-inflammatory properties
Chronic inflammation is one of the main culprits in a number of diseases, such as cancer, arthritis, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. EVOO is proven to help control inflammationthanks in large part to his antioxidants -specifically, oleocanthal. the The oleic acid in EVOO is also known to help reduce inflammation levels..
What about the benefits of lemon juice?
The humble lemon may make your mouth pucker up, but just a tablespoon of its juice has numerous health benefits. Here are some of them.
lemons rich in antioxidants
Lemons are an excellent source of plant compounds called flavonoids, They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Antioxidants are natural substances that help protect cells in the body from damage. By keeping cell damage in check, antioxidants may help reduce the overall risk of many health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. These powerful compounds do this eliminating free radicals — the harmful disease-causing intruders created by oxidative stress. The flavonoids in lemon can also help reduce inflammation in the body (and as mentioned above, chronic inflammation is an important marker of many diseases).
Has antibacterial effects
In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, Lemon juice has antibacterial and antifungal properties. that can support overall health. In a recent study, bioactive plant compounds in lemon juice effectively inhibited the growth of staph, salmonella and candida infections. But that’s not all, the lemon juice was also effective in combating an antibiotic-resistant bacterial strain which is known to cause pneumonia and blood infections.
It supports healthy skin.
Lemon juice is high Its vitamin C and vitamin E content makes it especially beneficial for the skin. Its powerful antioxidants help support collagen productionwhich is what gives skin its plump, plump appearance. Lemons are also rich in magnesium. — an important mineral that promotes healthy, supple skin and prevents damage from oxidative stress.
Does this home remedy have any benefits?
Many people claim that drinking olive oil and lemon juice together produces positive health results. While more research is needed, the potential benefits of combining the two are many.
Naturally cleanses the body.
Cleanses and detoxifications are believed to remove waste and toxins that have built up in the body over time. While there aren’t many studies exploring whether olive oil and lemon juice can help detoxify your digestive system, researchers suggest that antioxidants and polyphenols in both could be “cleansers” To the body.
supports healthy weightloss
Research shows that the vitamin C in lemon juice and the monounsaturated fatty acids in olive oil can promote weight loss. In the human body, vitamin C is essential for the production of carnitine, a compound that transports fat molecules to cells, where are broken down and used as fuel. In other words, inadequate intake of vitamin C can result in reduced breakdown of fats. In addition, select studies show that Diets rich in monounsaturated fatty acids lead to weight loss. similar to weight loss resulting from low-fat diets.
Promotes proper digestion
the gentle laxative action of olive oil – With the ability of lemon juice to combat bloating and constipation — improves digestion of food.
Is it safe to combine olive oil and lemon juice?
It is absolutely safe to combine olive oil and lemon juice.. In fact, this natural remedy is a combination of two ingredients that appear in many cuisines, particularly those found in the Mediterranean regions.
Note: If you experience a negative reaction, such as allergies, after consuming olive oil and lemon juice, consult a health professional.
The last word
So do olive oil and lemon juice have combined health benefits? In a word, yes. It is believed that the fatty acids and minerals in olive oil and the antioxidants and vitamins in lemon juice improve digestion, prevent premature aging of the skin, and more. Of course, more research is needed to back up these claims, but if you’re looking for a simple way to improve your overall health, consuming olive oil and lemon juice won’t hurt.
Keep in mind, however, that olive oil is high in calories and lemon juice is acidic, which can damage tooth enamel. If you’re watching your calorie intake or have especially sensitive teeth, eat these ingredients in moderation. Lastly, if you have a health condition or are taking prescription medications and are wondering if olive oil and lemon juice are right for you, consult your health care provider or nutritionist for guidance.
