How I Naturally Improved my Cholesterol
As someone who was never really conscious about health, I started my journey to find natural ways to enhance my well-being. Years ago, my cholesterol was definitely high, and I was surprised to find that the very shop I planned to open had the answer: olive oil!
I started researching this liquid gold as an alternative to medications, and to my astonishment, after three months of consuming just two tablespoons a day, my cholesterol levels began to fall within normal ranges. Being the data geek that I am, I discovered that the higher the polyphenols in olive oil, the better the results.
That discovery led me to explore a variety of flavors from The Little Shop of Olive Oils, and the experience has been nothing short of delicious.
How Extra Virgin Olive Oil May Support Healthy Cholesterol
The Health Benefits of Olive Oil
Before diving into my experience, it helps to understand why extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is often associated with heart health. EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which may help support balanced cholesterol levels by lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) while maintaining or increasing HDL (good cholesterol).
According to the Mayo Clinic Mediterranean Diet Guide , olive oil is a primary source of healthy fat in the Mediterranean diet and may help reduce total cholesterol and LDL levels when used in place of less healthy fats.
My Olive Oil Journey
Classic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
I started with a classic extra virgin olive oil, which is still my favorite. Fresh harvests rotate between hemispheres, offering bold, herby, and peppery flavors that are perfect for salads and vegetables.
Lemon Olive Oil
Next came lemon olive oil, which adds a bright, citrusy flavor. I love using it on grilled fish or in light vinaigrettes for fresh, flavorful meals.
Butter Olive Oil
I was skeptical at first, but butter olive oil became a favorite. It delivers that rich, buttery flavor without the saturated fat, making it perfect for sautéing or even spreading on toast.
Chipotle Olive Oil
For a little heat, chipotle olive oil adds a smoky, spicy kick. It works beautifully in marinades or drizzled over roasted vegetables and potatoes.
Peach Balsamic Vinegar
While not an olive oil, peach balsamic vinegar quickly became a favorite pairing. Its sweet and tangy flavor shines in dishes like this peach avocado chicken salad .
The Results
Since incorporating extra virgin olive oil into my daily routine, my meals have become more flavorful, and I have noticed improvements in my overall well-being. Most importantly, my cholesterol levels showed a meaningful improvement.
Adding heart-healthy olive oil to everyday meals is simple, enjoyable, and incredibly versatile. It is one of the easiest ways to support better eating habits while still loving what you cook.
Final Thoughts on Olive Oil and Heart Health
If you are looking for natural ways to support healthy cholesterol, exploring extra virgin olive oil is a great place to start. Not only can it support heart health, but it also transforms everyday cooking into something special.
As always, do your own research and consult a healthcare professional if needed. This is simply my personal experience and passion for sharing what worked for me.
Thanks for reading,
Tracey
3 comments
Thank you for providing such a comprehensive and practical guide. Your blog has become a valuable resource for me, and I’m sure it will help many others on their journey to better manage High cholesterol. Looking forward to more insightful content from you.
Paula, I actually use a 2 oz. shot glass. I love the taste of these EVOOs but you might prefer it on a salad. While infused and fused oils can be high-quality and flavorful, they cannot be technically labeled as extra virgin olive oil due to IOOC standards. Hope that helps!
I have a question. Did you actually drink 2 tablespoons of olive oil from a spoon each day? Is that what you mean? I just wanted to clarify. Or did you pour 2 tablespoons on say your salad for example and then eat it? Also, I love olive oil and I’ve been to your store quite a few times! I love it! Are the infused oils such as butter also considered EVOO? Thank you!
Paula C