Extra virgin olive oil is one of the healthiest foods in our diet, but there are still many myths and misconceptions about its consumption, storage and benefits.
Should we avoid cooking with olive oil? Is olive oil fattening? The greener the better? Find out now what is myth and what is truth !
🧐 Myth or Truth? Let's clarify!
❌ 1. Does Olive Oil Make You Fat?
Myth!
Extra virgin olive oil, like any fat, has calories, but that doesn't mean it makes you fat . On the contrary, when consumed in moderation, it can even help with weight control!
🔹 Rich in monounsaturated fats , olive oil helps balance metabolism and promotes satiety , reducing hunger throughout the day.
🔹 Studies show that the Mediterranean diet , which is based on olive oil, is associated with a lower risk of obesity .
👉 Tip: Consuming up to 3 to 4 tablespoons a day as part of a balanced diet brings benefits without harming your weight!
❌ 2. Does Olive Oil Lose Its Properties When Heated?
Myth!
Many people believe that olive oil should not be heated because it loses its properties and becomes harmful. But this is not true !
🔹 Extra virgin olive oil has a relatively high smoke point (around 190ºC to 210ºC) , which means it can be used for cooking without degrading quickly.
🔹 In addition, its antioxidants help protect the structure of the fat , making it more stable than other vegetable oils.
👉 Tip: Olive oil can be used for sautéing and cooking, but to preserve its antioxidants as much as possible , it is best to add it at the end of cooking !
✅ 3. The Greener the Olive Oil, the Better?
Myth!
The color of the olive oil does not determine its quality ! Many believe that a greener olive oil is superior, but the hue varies depending on:
🔹 The type of olive used.
🔹 The moment of harvest (green olives produce greener oil, but this does not always mean higher quality).
🔹 The extraction process.
👉 Tip: Instead of the color, check the acidity (maximum 0.8%) and the origin of the olive oil on the label to ensure a quality product!
✅ 4. Should Olive Oil Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
Myth!
Olive oil should not be stored in the refrigerator, as this can change its texture and cause it to solidify.
🔹 Ideally, it should be stored in a cool, dark place away from light and heat to preserve its antioxidants and prevent oxidation.
🔹 Contact with air can also degrade the oil, so keep the bottle tightly closed .
👉 Tip: Choose dark glass bottles or metal cans, which better protect the oil from light!
✅ 5. Is Refined Olive Oil the Same as Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Myth!
Refined olive oils do not have the same quality or the same benefits as extra virgin olive oil.
🔹 Extra virgin olive oil is obtained only through mechanical processes, without chemicals or heat, preserving the beneficial antioxidants and polyphenols .
🔹 Refined olive oil goes through an industrial process that removes most of the nutrients and natural flavor.
👉 Tip: To get all the benefits, always choose good quality extra virgin olive oil !
📌 Conclusion
🔎 Now that you know the truth about extra virgin olive oil, you can use it in an informed way and enjoy all its benefits!
💚 Recap:
✅ Olive oil is not fattening when consumed in moderation.
✅ It can be used for cooking, as it does not lose all its properties with heat.
✅ Color does not define the quality of the olive oil.
✅ It does not need to be stored in the refrigerator , but rather in a dark, cool place.
✅ Refined olive oil does not have the same benefits as extra virgin olive oil.