Olive oil is considered a top source of healthy fats. There are three grades of olive oil: extra virgin, virgin, and refined, with extra virgin being the least processed and refined being the most processed. Using olive oil in your diet can promote health in several ways.
Decreases risk of heart disease and stroke
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 665,000 Americans die from heart disease each year. While eating too much of certain fats can lead to blocked arteries, extra-virgin olive oil is a healthy fat that has been known to decrease the risk of heart disease. Adding it to your diet in moderation can help lower your cholesterol and keep your arteries from hardening, reducing your risk of stroke.