Discover the health benefits of black olives

Black olives might not appear as appealing as their green counterparts, yet they possess qualities that are advantageous for your health.

Olives are typically advantageous since they provide dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain stable cholesterol levels. However, this fruit has additional qualities.

What are black olives?

Black olives are wonderful fruits of a variety, highlighting diverse origins, tree species, and unique storage and curing methods. Any ripe olive is often called a black olive, and it can sometimes showcase beautiful shades of reddish or purple!

Studies shows that 20 large black olives contain 100 calories, nine grams of fat, six grams of carbohydrates, and two grams of fiber. A serving of 20 black olives contains over 600 milligrams of sodium, which is about 25 percent of the daily value.

Additionally, olives have a fascinating history that traces back to Asia around 6,000 years ago. They swiftly emerged as a beloved addition to the Mediterranean, particularly among the Greeks. Over time, they cherished oils for numerous Judeo-Christian and Islamic religions. These religions contributed to the widespread popularity of olives in homes and communities.

Benefits of black olives

Beneficial for the heart

They are packed with anti-oxidants that can contribute to lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. These olives support the prevention of cholesterol oxidation and the accumulation of fat in the arteries. Moreover, they are packed with healthy fats that can support your body in producing more HDL (good cholesterol).

Contributes to cancer prevention

In addition to benefiting the heart, they are rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, offering cellular protection that helps inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Olive consumption is associated with a promising reduction in the risk of colon cancer.

Beauty and hair care

They are packed with nutrients and vitamins that promote healthy skin and hair. They are packed with antioxidants and vitamin E, offering your skin protection against the harmful effects of UV rays. A black olive is a wonderful anti-ageing agent and an excellent moisturizer that can beautifully protect and hydrate your skin. Additionally, using it regularly will lead to smooth, lustrous, and strong hair!

Great for your eye

If you experience poor eyesight, discomfort around the eyes, dry eyelids, pink eye, conjunctivitis, or other eye conditions, incorporating black olives into your diet can be beneficial. Vitamin A is plentiful in these fruits and addresses age-related eye issues like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

Supports digestion

As mentioned, enjoying black olives is associated with a lower risk of colon cancer. Olive oil boasts wonderful anti-inflammatory properties that can fight gastritis and ulcers. It supports the production of bile and pancreatic hormones, contributing to the prevention of gallbladder stones. Additionally, black olives are packed with fiber, which can work wonders for food digestion!

Comparison of black olives and green olives

Olives are packed with healthy fats and essential minerals like copper and iron, making them a fantastic addition to your diet! Green olives are picked, while black olives are harvested when they reach their full ripeness. Green olives are a bit healthier than black olives since they have a higher concentration of polyphenols, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties! Additionally, they have a greater concentration of sodium, calories, fat, and vitamin E than black olives. Interestingly, black olives are often richer in iron compared to green olives. If you’re seeking a healthier, nutrient-rich choice.

When it comes to taste, green olives have a more pronounced bitterness than black olives. Additionally, black olives often have a delightful richness, with more oil and a milder saltiness compared to green olives. This is primarily because of the exciting preparations and packing ahead!

When it comes to preparations, the preservation methods offer some exciting variations! Green olives are often soaked in lye, a chemical solution, and then undergo a delightful fermentation process in brine. Black olives are cured right away, skipping the fermentation process entirely!