UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE BEHIND COLD-PRESSED EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL, MONOUNSATURATED FATS, AND POLYPHENOLS TO IMPROVE CARDIOVASCULAR WELLNESS NATURALLY
Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) delivers a powerful combination of heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Regularly incorporating cold-pressed olive oil into meals can support cardiovascular function, lower cholesterol levels, and improve overall health. When stored and used properly, cold-pressed olive oil is more than a staple in the kitchen — it’s a daily investment in long-term heart wellness.
What Cold-Pressed Olive Oil Really Means
Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is made through a mechanical pressing process. The cold-pressed process involves mechanically pressing freshly harvested olives without using heat or chemical solvents. The gentle nature of the cold-pressed method preserves the natural nutrients, antioxidants, and flavor of olive oil, making it a superstar in heart-healthy cooking and other wellness routines.
Why Monounsaturated Fats in Cold-Pressed Olive Oil Matter for the Heart
Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), particularly oleic acid, which makes up about 70 to 80 percent of its fat content. According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), replacing saturated fat with unsaturated fat, such as monounsaturated fat from olive oil, may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. MUFAs help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol while maintaining or increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good") cholesterol. Additionally, this balance supports overall heart health by improving blood lipid profiles, lowering blood pressure, and reducing inflammation.
Antioxidants in Cold-Pressed Olive Oil That Work at the Cellular Level
Beyond healthy fats, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has beneficial antioxidants, specifically polyphenols like hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein, which help to neutralize oxidative stress, a serious condition that could potentially damage blood vessels, leading to heart disease. Polyphenols also improve endothelial function (the inner lining of blood vessels), which helps regulate blood flow and prevent arterial stiffness. Extra virgin varieties tend to have the highest levels of polyphenols, which is why they’re often recommended in Mediterranean-style diets that prioritize heart health.
Other Benefits of Cold-Pressed Olive Oil That Support Overall Wellness
Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) isn’t just good for the heart — it also contributes to brain health. Diets that incorporate olive oil have been shown to slow down cognitive decline and may even reduce the risk of some neurodegenerative conditions. Though olive oil is calorie-dense, it may actually aid in weight control. Reports from the International Olive Council (IOC) suggest that olive oil-based diets lead to more sustainable weight management compared to low-fat alternatives. The high monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) content helps with satiety and metabolic balance, making it easier to maintain healthy eating habits.
How to Use and Store Cold-Pressed Olive Oil
To get the most heart health benefits, use cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) in everyday meals. Cooking at low to moderate heat helps preserve its healthful properties. Proper storage is key to keeping cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) fresh. Store it in a cool, dark place in a tightly sealed container, ideally a dark glass bottle that protects it from light and air exposure. High temperatures and light can degrade antioxidants and lead to rancidity.
Discover the True Essence of Greek Olive Oil
Crafted in Lakonia, Greece, Truly Greek olive oils are rooted in family tradition and village pride. The olives, Athenolia and Koroneiki, are harvested from local groves to preserve their fresh flavor and naturally low acidity. The result is a collection of oils that reflect the soul of the Mediterranean: pure, balanced, and unforgettable.
Truly Greek Premium 0.2 Extra Virgin Olive Oil — 100 Percent Athenolia Olives
This internationally recognized olive oil is crafted exclusively from Athenolia olives grown in Lakonia. Cold-pressing within one to four hours of harvesting the olives gives our premium olive oil an acidity level of just 0.2 percent (a rarity in olive oils). Truly Greek Premium 0.2 delivers a smooth texture, buttery richness, and refined complexity. Ideal for salads, warm bread, or as a finishing touch, this olive oil reflects the finest expression of cold-pressed Greek tradition. This olive oil can be used for stovetop cooking at temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Truly Greek Classic Extra Virgin Olive Oil — 100 Percent Koroneiki Olives
Made from Koroneiki olives, known as the “queen of olives,” this bold and balanced olive oil features a naturally low acidity of 0.5 percent. Truly Greek Classic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is cold-pressed and offers a high polyphenol content. Use it for marinades, roasted vegetables, or everyday cooking to bring a true taste of Greece to the table.
