By Dr Pieris Nicola PhD BSc (Hons) Dip ION
Omega 9 fatty acids have their double bond located nine carbon atoms from the end of the carbon chain. Oleic acid is the most common omega 9 fatty acid. Olive oil is the richest dietary source of oleic acid, which makes up 55-80% of olive oil. Other good sources include avocados and nuts. Omega 9 fatty acids help to reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Extra-virgin olive oil is also a good source of phenols. These are plant chemicals with antioxidant activity, which may explain why olive oil helps protect LDL (“bad”) cholesterol from free radical-induced damage that sets off the artery-clogging process of atherosclerosis.
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