Recently there was more evidence from a study at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, that Extra Virgin Olive Oil has demonstrable health benefits. We’ve heard for years that the “Mediterranean Diet” is linked to longevity, lower heart disease, lower incidence of diabetes, and weight control. But now we see that a specific component of this diet (i.e., really good olive oil) helps fend off dementia and Alzheimer’s. Read a summary of this interesting study here: www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/06/170621103123.htm
In addition to being delicious, it turns out that premium olive oils not only reduce the brain plaque and fibroid tangles associated with diminished mental capabilities, but also preserves the ability to learn late into life.
It is interesting to note that the study linked the positive results to premium oil (extra virgin means that it was pressed only once and usually using a cold-press technique). This is important, because there are shortages of high quality olive oil coming from Europe, where a persistent drought and a pernicious pest (the Mediterranean Olive Fly) have reduced the output by more than 20%. As you may have read, some of the countries who have been traditionally major exporters of oil, are now rife with oil that is cut with canola (rapeseed) or other tasteless oils in order to increase the volume of oil sold.
So it is even more important than ever, if we want to accrue the benefits of pure, premium olive oil, you need to be sure you are getting the real thing. Sonoma County is becoming a major source of world-class olive oil and we’re proud to be a part of that agricultural community!
Recently we spoke with a local television station about Monte-Bellaria’s organic olive oil production. Click here to see that interview with our head farmer, Bill MacElroy. https://www.facebook.com/MonteBellaria/videos/226292054528749/