The magic of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) goes beyond epic salad dressings, roasted vegetable sheet trays, and the ultimate sundae topping. EVOO is basically liquid gold for your health; it's packed with antioxidants, heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and incredible flavor. But how much should you actually be eating to get the benefits, without having to chug it from the bottle (we won't judge if you do though). Let's dive into the science, the benefits, and the deliciousness of a little daily EVOO. 

A Tablespoon or Two a Day Keeps the Doctor Away?

For most of us, one to two tablespoons minimum of EVOO per day is the sweet spot. This amount has been linked to a range of health benefits, from improved heart health to reduced inflammation. The infamous PREDIDMED study found that people on a mediterranean diet who consumed about four tablespoons of olive oil a day significantly reduced their risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Why Extra Virgin?

Not all olive oils are created equal, and this is where EVOO shines. EVOO is the least refined, which means it retains all those lovely polyphenols and antioxidants from the first pressing of the olives. Those polyphenols are what gives EVOO its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties. Pure olive oil or virgin olive oil go through multiple rounds of processing and refinement where they are stripped of a lot of those beneficial nutrients. 

Health Benefits That Will Have You Sizzling and Drizzling! 

Let's break down all of those health benefits that will have you adding EVOO to everything! 

Heart Health: The monounsaturated fats found in EVOO protect your heart and lower bad cholesterol. 

Anti-Inflammatory: EVOO is packed with compounds that combat inflammation which can be the cause of many chronic diseases. 

Brain Boost: Olive oil has been linked to cognitive benefits, helping you to stay sharp! 

Antioxidants: Thanks to its high polyphenol content, EVOO helps to fight oxidative stress and can even support healthy skin. 

How to Get Your Daily Dose of EVOO

It's surprisingly easy to hit your daily target of olive oil without having to change your whole routine. 

Drizzle on Salads: This Drizzle-filled lemon vinaigrette goes perfect on any salad! 

Dip It With Bread: Bread and butter? No Bread and EVOO!! These EVOO and black tea bread rolls with orange infused Drizzle dipping oil are just perfection. 

Roast, Bake, Sauté: Sizzle is the everyday chef's best friend and can be used in place of virtually all other cooking fats. Use it on a pot roast, roasted veggies, or substitute it in your baking! 

The Verdict

Incorporating EVOO into your daily routine is a simple way to elevate both your meals and your health. With its rich flavor and powerful benefits, EVOO is more than just a cooking staple; it's a little daily dose of wellness and flavor. So grab a bottle of Sizzle and Drizzle, knowing each squeeze is step toward a healthier, more delicious life!