Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Today we are talking about extra virgin olive oil, but first let’s talk fats. Our bodies need them for several reasons:

1. Energy Booster: Think of fat as your body’s turbocharged energy reserve! It packs a punch, giving you more than double the energy of carbs or proteins per gram. So, whether you’re hitting the gym or just doing your daily hustle, fat’s got your back.
2. Cozy Cushion: Fat isn’t just about looks—it’s like your body’s fluffy insulation. It wraps around your organs, keeping them safe from bumps and chills. Plus, it helps keep your body temperature just right, like a built-in snuggly blanket.
3. Cell Superstar: Ever wonder how your cells stay in shape? Fat helps build their strong, flexible walls, keeping them in tip-top condition. It’s like the scaffolding that holds everything together.
4. Hormone Harmony: Fats aren’t just good for your body—they’re VIPs in the hormone world. They help make those important messengers that keep things running smoothly, from your mood to your metabolism to blood sugar regulation.
5. Brain Food: Your brain loves fat! It’s like a gourmet meal for those little neurons. Omega-3s and other fats help keep your thinking sharp and your memory on point.
6. Taste Bud Tantalizer: Ever notice how tasty foods often have a bit of fat? It’s not just for flavor—fat makes meals more satisfying and keeps you feeling full longer. It’s like the butter on top of a delicious slice of fresh milled bread!

Remember, not all fats are created equal. Go for the good stuff. Your body will thank you with energy, protection, and all-around awesomeness!

I use a TON of extra virgin olive oil. I make bread with it on a daily basis, along with some delicious herbs for dipping with my crusty, rustic italian bread. Last week, I made the most light and airy, delicious angel food cake with a bunch of egg whites, and with the leftover yolks I made the BEST mayo using my Kasandrino’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Look for that recipe coming soon!

Earlier this year, I dove into Dr. Simon Poole’s fascinating book, “The Real Mediterranean Diet“. It’s like a science-packed treasure map to understanding why this way of eating is so incredibly healthy. Seriously, it’s a must-read!

One of the coolest parts was Dr. Poole’s deep dive into olive oil. He dedicated a whole chapter to it! He talks about how you can literally taste the health in those fruity, bitter, and peppery flavors of extra virgin olive oil. It’s not just tasty—it’s packed with superpowers for your body.

Dr. Poole also blew my mind when he revealed that most of us need to be guzzling down about 10 times more olive oil than we currently do. Who knew? He compares it to a superhero duo: when you combine olive oil with other ingredients, BAM! Extra powerful health benefits.

And get this—olive oil isn’t just a once-in-a-blue-moon purchase. Dr. Poole suggests it should be on your shopping list weekly, or even more often. It’s like upgrading your pantry to a health-boosting paradise!

If you’re into discovering how food can be your secret weapon for feeling awesome, this book will totally rock your world. Trust me, it’s not your average read—it’s a journey into delicious, science-backed goodness.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Reigns Supreme in High-Heat Cooking

Check this out—antioxidants are like the superheroes that protect oils during cooking, preventing them from turning into bad guys like polar compounds and free radicals. These villains have been linked to serious stuff like Alzheimer’s and cancer, so keeping them in check is a big deal.

Now, guess which oil stood strong with the lowest polar compound percentage after being heated up to a scorching 460°F for hours? You got it—extra virgin olive oil takes the crown! It beat out all the usual suspects you’d think of using for high-heat cooking, hands down. According to the scoop from Acta Scientific Nutritional Health (June 2018), it clocked in with the lowest polar compounds at just 5972 mg/kg.

This discovery got me pumped to explore different types of extra virgin olive oil. Organic was my first must-have, no question. Plus, milling those grains fresh has totally leveled up my ingredient game—all while saving some cash along the way. Win-win, right?

Where to Find High Quality Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

So, I tried the organic extra virgin olive oil from Costco—it came from all over the place, and let’s just say it didn’t quite have that special flavor I read about in the book. Then there was the single origin stuff at Costco, but it wasn’t organic either. Talk about frustrating!

But hey, someone hooked me up with their favorite, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. Kinda like baking bread with freshly milled flour—it might seem intense at first, but wow, did that flavor grow on me. Now, it’s become this delicious, must-have part of my kitchen adventures.

The Flavor of EVOO

I could roast and entire tray of veggies in this oil, and eat the ENTIRE tray myself. Over fresh milled bread, of course. The polyphenols go from the olive oil into the veggies, and the good nutrients from the veggies go into that olive oil – and it’s heaven for your palate.

Polyphenols – what are they

Polyphenols are like the superheroes in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), packing both flavor and serious health perks. Check out why they’re not just tasty, but totally nutritious too:

1. Antioxidant Avengers: Polyphenols are mega antioxidants that take down free radicals, lowering the risk of diseases like heart issues and cancer. They’re like your body’s shield against oxidative stress.
2. Inflammation Fighters: EVOO’s polyphenols also have anti-inflammatory powers, calming down inflammation that can lead to all sorts of health troubles. Think of them as peacekeepers for your body’s peace of mind.
3. Heart Health Champions: These antioxidants help keep your ticker in top shape by improving cholesterol levels and blood pressure. They even help your blood vessels do their job better—now that’s heart-smart!
4. Cancer Busters: Some studies suggest polyphenols might even lend a hand in preventing certain cancers. They’re like bodyguards, protecting cells from going rogue.
5. Brain Buffs: Polyphenols could safeguard your brain cells from damage, possibly lowering the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s. It’s like giving your brain its own personal bodyguard detail.
6. Skin Superstars: Whether you apply them or enjoy them in your food, polyphenols can keep your skin looking fab by fending off UV damage and boosting elasticity. Hello, glow!
7. Gut Guardians: EVOO’s polyphenols are also good news for your gut, helping to keep things running smoothly and possibly preventing digestive issues. They’re like the friendly helpers your gut microbiome loves.

So, next time you drizzle some EVOO, remember you’re not just adding flavor—you’re adding a whole lot of goodness to your body. Super tasty and super healthy—what’s not to love?

Here’s the scoop: the perks of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) can vary depending on how much and what kinds of polyphenols are in there, plus your own health vibe and what you munch on daily. Picking top-notch EVOO and mixing it into a balanced diet? That’s how you amp up those health bonuses and make every bite count!

Dr. Mel’s Choice: Kasandrino’s

Check out Kasandrino’s EVOO—they’ve got options for everyone, whether you prefer glass bottles, cans, or even the trusty bag in a box. If you’re like me and worry about plastics sneaking into your food, go with the glass or can. But here’s the twist I picked up from Dr. Poole’s book: that bag in a box? It’s like a superhero cape for your olive oil, keeping oxygen out and slowing down the whole oxidation thing. That’s why I’m all in on the bag in a box—because in my kitchen, I make the rules!

And hey, I’m not just spinning a yarn here—I’ve got skin in the game. I’ve got that 3-liter box on a monthly subscription. It’s my go-to for everything from whipping up bread to dunking fresh veggies and making magic in the skillet. Seriously, I use it like that one lady uses her Frank’s Red Hot sauce—you know what I mean, right? #iykyk

Their Story

When it comes to caring about olive oil and your well-being, this family doesn’t mess around. Dive into their story, and you’ll see exactly why they’ve got my trust and taste buds hooked.

Conclusion

I’d really encourage you to give these guys a shot and share your thoughts with me. Dealing with heart health, blood sugar stuff, or hoping for any of those cool benefits from polyphenols I mentioned? Maybe give that book a whirl. Then grab yourself some EVOO that’s tasty, good for you, and pairs perfectly with freshly milled grains. Thanks a bunch!