Effective Ways to Use Olive Oil for Weight Loss

Joining gyms, periodic visits to the dieticians, and a range of other alternative treatments for weight loss; we tend to do all. Understandably, each of these has a merit. Nonetheless, olive oil for weight loss never got the attention that it deserved. It is only recently that olive oil has evolved to be a panacea for good health and perfect nutrition. Apart from the numerous health benefits it confers, it is especially useful for people aspiring to shed that extra flab. More so, it is a hassle-free, easy-to-adopt measure that can be a part of one’s daily regimen without extending any extra effort. 

Olive Oil and Weight Loss 

The primary ingredient of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil is extracted after grinding green or ripe olives. But the best olive oil for weight loss is the extra virgin olive oil extracted from absolutely ripened olives. Olive oil contains high amounts of monounsaturated fatty acids. Scientific evidence suggests that unsaturated fats, like monounsaturated fatty acids, play a greater role in helping maintain a healthy weight as compared to saturated fats. It is found that monounsaturated fatty acids keep weight gain at bay as it helps prevent fat accumulation.

Olive oil is a perfect source of medium-chain triglycerides. Although medium-chain triglycerides are partially man-made fats, they are naturally present in olive oils in abundant quantities. The medium-chain triglycerides of olive oil break down and get absorbed in the body quickly. 

They are also known to aid weight loss by reducing body fat by enhancing the body’s calorie-burning ability. It also increases the feeling of fullness, thereby reducing calorie intake. Their positive impact extends to improving the gut environment too.

 Ways to Use Olive Oil for Weight Loss

Although olive can form the base of any culinary preparation, there are a few specific ways in which the consumption of olive oil works best for weight loss. These ways are listed below:

1. Olive Oil with Lemon

When used together, olive oil and lemon form a powerful duo. The beneficial properties of olive oil and fresh lemon juice simply multiply in the magical mixture. They help in detoxification, boost the immune system, promote digestion, keep blood pressure under control, bring down cholesterol levels, and give you the energy to go on throughout the day. 

Not to miss, it is a powerful way to shed those extra kilos. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon into 200 ml of lukewarm water. Drink it on an empty stomach every morning 30 minutes before breakfast.

2. Olive oil with Ginger

Olive oil and ginger are two incredible foods. Their benefits only multiply when taken together. Ginger is a superfood for the digestive system. It is a natural fat burner. Olive oil too is rich in biologically active antioxidants. Together, they work to activate energy release through fat-burning. 

Cut a large cube of ginger into small pieces and drop them into 200 ml of water with a tablespoon of olive oil. Let it stay there overnight for the ingredients to infuse. Drink it in the morning. Alternatively, add ginger slices and extra virgin olive oil to your favourite salad or smoothie.

3. Olive Oil with Salt and Cucumber

Cucumbers are naturally rich in water and are therefore low on calories and add to the feeling of fullness. Their high fibre content helps eliminate toxins from the body. To get your great starter ready, sprinkle a little salt and olive oil to nicely cut slices of cucumber and you are good to go. This is the perfect way to refresh your body, replenish the electrolytes, and lose a few unwanted kilos!

4. Olive Oil with Cayenne Pepper

Although chillies typically irritate the digestive lining and are bad for the digestive system, cayenne pepper, a moderately hot chilli pepper, is a digestive stimulant. Cayenne pepper triggers the production of digestive juices and gastric enzymes that aid in food digestion. 

Adding olive oil to cayenne pepper enhances the digestive benefits. Simply immerse a handful of cayenne pepper into olive oil and let them stay in a glass bottle for a prolonged period. Use this olive oil to prepare meals or to garnish salad dressings. 

5. Olive Oil with Balsamic Vinegar

There cannot be a better collaboration than olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Both products contain high levels of polyphenols. Polyphenols are antioxidants known to reduce inflammation and blood pressure. Balsamic vinegar is a diuretic ingredient that helps eliminate toxins from the body. Thus, when served with olive oil, it acts as a perfect weight loss partner. Not to miss, the exquisite flavours of olive oil and balsamic vinegar maximize the savouriness.

6. Cooking in Olive Oil

Preparing your everyday meals in olive oil is the simplest way to consume olive oil. Adding a tablespoon of olive oil to each meal can make it healthy and nourishing. But remember not to overdo it.

Useful Tips When Using Olive Oil for Weight Loss

Like every other thing, overdoing olive oil can do more harm than good. So, just in case you plan to use olive oil for weight loss, remember these tips before you get down to using it:

1. One tablespoon of olive oil is all you need per meal. Do not go overboard.
2. Keep a count of your daily calorie intake. 1 tablespoon of olive oil has 119 calories. 
3. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
4. Try to restrict sugar consumption.
5. Minimize the intake of salt. 
6. Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking.

Conclusion

Olive oil can be your best ally in your weight loss journey. Make it the medium for cooking or pouring on your salads and shakes – it’s that easy and hassle-free. If you are thinking of drinking olive oil for weight loss, even that might do the trick. But follow it with caution. One tablespoon per meal is all that is required by the body to reap the benefits of olive oil for weight loss.