Food Is Medicine! The Health Benefits Of Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar

FOOD

FOOD IS medicine!

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF OLIVE OIL & BALSAMIC VINEGAR

OLIVE OIL AND BALSAMIC VINEGAR are usually pantry staples when it comes to gourmet cooking, but most people really do not know how to use them or know how good they are for you. For centuries people have been celebrating the health benefits of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The health benefits include reduced risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and other infectious diseases. Olive oil also decelerates the aging process, helps in controlling diabetes, and aids in digestion.

Both olive oil and balsamic vinegar contain high levels of polyphenols, an antioxidant that is generally believed to reduce inflammation and blood pressure. Olive oil is also high in vitamin E, a nutrient that helps to repair damaged cells. Balsamic vinegar, while not a source of vitamin E, has antioxidant properties that help aid in digestion. As a fermented food with probiotic benefits, it can help promote good gut health and digestion while supporting overall immune function. There is some evidence that balsamic vinegar can help aid in weight loss, regulate blood sugar, reduce hypertension, reduce acid reflux, and help with lowering your cholesterol.

Although there are great benefits to consuming olive oil and balsamic vinegar, it is even better when you have a great source to add to your cooking. It helps aid in the quality of the food, going from just okay to extraordinary. There is a saying, “Food Is Medicine” and good quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar fall into this category. If you use the right amount of good quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar, you may help reduce your risk of chronic diseases. w

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Shannon Barker is the owner of The Enchanted Olive with a new location coming this month to 176 N Broad Street in Mooresville. You can reach her at 980.447.7360 to schedule a tasting or visit them today at www.EnchantedOliveOil.com.

Here is one of our favorite recipes using both olive oil and balsamic vinegar that is sure to make your taste buds soar! This and many other recipes are available in our new cookbook that you can purchase on our website.

TOMATO BRUSCHETTA

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 cup The Enchanted Olive Italian Herb with Garlic Olive Oil, “Mayor’s Blend” 3 tablespoons chopped basil 2-3 teaspoons minced garlic 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4 medium tomatoes, diced or 2 cans of diced tomatoes 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese 1 loaf (1 pound) unsliced French bread The Enchanted Olive 25 Star Balsamic Vinegar for drizzling

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a large bowl, combine oil, basil, garlic, salt and pepper. Add tomatoes and toss gently. Sprinkle with cheese. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Bring to room temperature before serving. Cut bread into 24 slices; toast under broiler until lightly browned. Top with tomato mixture and drizzle with 25 Star Balsamic Vinegar. Serve immediately.