Plus, we can consume significantly fewer calories and get a much higher micronutrient value from nuts and seeds compared to olive oil—nuts contain about 40-50 calories per tablespoon, compared to olive oil's 120 calories.
Walnuts are one of the few plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids (other sources include flaxseed oil, canola oil, and soybean oil). Walnut oil has about 10 times more alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, the essential omega-3 fatty acid in plants) than olive oil (Savva & Kafatos 2016).
Nuts are a good source of protein. Most nuts also contain at least some of these heart-healthy substances: Unsaturated fats. It's not entirely clear why, but it's thought that the "good" fats in nuts — both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats — lower bad cholesterol levels.
Olive oil and nuts contain monounsaturated fats, which are better for artery health than the saturated fats found in butter, meat and lard. These foods are also high in fiber and vitamin E, as well as minerals. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The diet could reduce damaging inflammation, Martinez says.
The health benefits of olive oil have been attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, observational studies have shown a link between lower risks of cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and even dementia in people who consume higher amounts of olive oil than those who use little or none.
The monounsaturated fats in olive oil offer several health benefits. However, excess consumption of olive oil may cause several side effects. It may cause acne, allergies, skin rashes, blackheads, and saturated- and trans-fat-related diseases. It may also cause diarrhea and inflammation in some people.
These potent molecules mean that even a little bit of the right olive oil consumed daily can protect from cardiovascular disease and reduce existing damage to the heart and arteries. This is why cardiologists recommend switching to high-phenolic olive oil.
It's been shown to lower blood pressure and contains plant-based compounds that offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties known to reduce the disease process, including heart disease.
As for vitamins and minerals, both olive oil and peanut oil contain vitamin E. However, olive oil also contains additional healthy compounds, including other vitamins, antioxidants, polyphenols and more. As a result, olive oil offers more well-rounded health benefits than peanut oil does.
As a general rule of thumb, between one and two tablespoons a day is a good amount of olive oil to consume. This goes for both olive oil that you drink for health benefits and also olive oil that you consume with food as part of your regular cooking process.
Brazil nuts, cashews and macadamia nuts are higher in saturated fat. Too much of this can contribute to raised cholesterol levels, so only eat them occasionally. Chestnuts are an exception – they're lower in all types of fats and higher in starchy carbohydrate than other nuts.
Can eating too many nuts raise cholesterol? Yes, it is possible that eating nuts in excess may increase LDL cholesterol levels due to their saturated fat content. Eating nuts in excess may also exceed a person's daily calorie needs, leading to increased LDL cholesterol levels.
“Avocados and avocado oil are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats,” says Levinson. One review found that avocado oil has excellent nutritional value at low and high temperatures. “Avocado oil has a higher smoke point than olive oil, so it is better for higher-heat cooking,” says Levinson.
Olives are packed with heart-healthy fats.
But there's one caveat: You'll be getting considerably less fat if you opt for whole olives as opposed to olive oil. "Olive oil is made up of 100 percent fat, while olives contain about 20 percent fat," says McDowell.
Both olive oil and avocado oil are considered good fats and are an excellent source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which can help improve heart health. On the other hand, olive oil is slightly more nutritious on the whole because it contains more potassium, calcium, iron and vitamins.
The healthiest type is extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO). It can help lower your blood pressure and fight inflammation. It lowers your risk of heart disease by improving the health of your blood vessels and preventing blood clots. EVOO is also loaded with antioxidants, which ward off cell damage.
Healthiest Stir-Fry Oils
Both canola oil and olive oil are low in unhealthy saturated fats and high in healthy monounsaturated fats. Scientists believe monounsaturated fats help to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) which can clog arteries and lead to heart disease or strokes.
Regular consumption of olive oil makes it easier for your body to eliminate harmful toxins and leaves your liver clean and healthy. You can actually maximize the benefits of olive oil by opting for extra virgin olive oil.
These fatty acids have been proven to aid in the regulation of the immune system, and even help treat some autoimmune diseases. Olive oil in the morning is a great boost to your immune system and get those necessary fatty acids to keep you feeling good and healthy.
Olive oil is packed full of beneficial antioxidants that can lower your "bad" (LDL) cholesterol while leaving your "good" (HDL) cholesterol untouched.
Grapeseed oil is rich in omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E. By incorporating this heart-friendly oil into your diet, you can enjoy a reduced risk of heart disease because of its high antioxidant properties. Try using it for stir-frying, sauteing and searing vegetables and protein.
Blood vessels become more flexible and healthier (Oleic Acid in olive oil protects blood vessels)
Olive Oil is a Healthy Frying Opton
Olive oil has been named “the healthiest fat on Earth,” in part because of its unique ability to reduce the risk of heart disease. If you want to keep fried foods a part of the rotation, make sure to use a good fat, such as a high-quality olive oil.