Recent studies by the American Heart Association and JACC[1] have shown that olive oil is an important part of people's diets, with results suggesting those who regularly have olive oil are less likely to develop cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension (high blood pressure), stroke, and hyperlipidemia (high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels).
Further, according to the "Thai Food Good Heart Project" report by the Heart Foundation of Thailand under the Royal Patronage and Mahidol University's Faculty of Public Health, olive oil is listed as a leading healthy oil - ideal for reducing the risk of common illnesses such as diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease due to its high content of polyphenols, antioxidants, monosaturated fats, vitamin E and K and omega. This is crucial for elder family members to ensure they are receiving the best health benefits possible during the pandemic.
But as recently highlighted by pediatrician Dr. Pornnipa Sriprasert, the owner of the page Children's Stories by Dr. Amm, olive is also rich in health benefits for young children above six months.
"Extra virgin olive oil contains omega 3 and omega 6 in similar portions to breast milk, and the same level of linoleic acid, making it helpful for the development of nerve fibers and brain development. You can start adding olive oil to your baby's diet as soon as they are ready for solids," says Dr. Pornnipa Sriprasert.
She also shared other benefits of olive oil for children, including:
- Relieve constipation.
Our children are evolving constantly during this difficult time at home, and their bodies are changing every day. When the child is disturbed by constipation, including olive oil in a meal, or applying it warmed to their stomach area can help relieve their discomfort. Using a clockwise massaging motion on your baby's stomach can help improve digestion and ensure their happiness can return quickly.
- Reduces coughs.
Dr. Pornnipa Sriprasert highlighted how olive oil has natural ingredients that can help effectively relieve children's coughs and clear up congestion, helping restore some of their natural immunity. By mixing 3-4 teaspoons of olive oil with natural oils such as peppermint or eucalyptus and rubbing it gently onto the baby's chest and back before bedtime, parents can help their children sleep more easily and ease their coughs.
- Moisturizer for the child's skin.
Finally, parents want to help their children feel comfortable in their skin and absorb as many health benefits as possible. Dryness and allergies are natural issues when stuck indoors with air conditioners or fans blowing throughout the day. Thanks to the antioxidants and vitamins present in olive oil, it acts as a natural moisturizer suitable for all ages, including for babies six months and up. Dr. Pornnipa recommended applying a small amount of Extra Virgin Olive Oil to alleviate dryness and help children rest.
With many Thais struggling to maintain their fitness and health levels due to restricted movement and spending more times indoors, it is important that both young and old maintain the best diet possible to boost their immune system. One bottle of olive oil can benefit the whole family during this challenging time - to learn more, consult local pediatricians and medical experts to help your loved ones stay safe.
About Bertolli
The world's number one olive oil brand, Bertolli was founded in the small Tuscan town of Lucca, Italy. For 150 years, the Bertolli name has been synonymous with Italian and international cooking and eating. At the heart of the Bertolli brand is a commitment to quality, dedication to leveraging the natural goodness of ingredients and a tradition of providing outstanding and flavorful olive oils to Thailand and the world. For more information, please visit https://www.facebook.com/BertolliTH/.
Source: Hill & Knowlton