Food Power Couples

Food Power Couples: Olive Oil Boosts Absorption of Vitamins and Nutrients

Thinking about going fat-free? Think again! We all know that extra virgin olive oil has a whole host of health benefits, from a high level of antioxidants to protection against heart disease. But did you know that using EVOO with other healthful foods can actually boost the benefits you receive? Foods like kale, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants are best absorbed in the presence of a heart healthy fat, like extra virgin olive oil. Start your meals with a leafy green salad and include olive oil in the dressing, like the kale or orange salad featured here.

This rule doesn’t just apply to those good-for-you greens. Tomatoes, which are both tasty and packed with vitamins and nutrients like beta-carotene and cancer-fighting lycopene, are best consumed with extra virgin olive oil. Once again, EVOO helps absorb those nutrients allowing you to get the full benefit from filling your plate. According to Dr. Leo Galland in this article on the Huffington Post, there is almost no absorption of vital nutrients from salads eaten with fat-free dressings. So double up on your health, and pair nutrient rich foods like kale and tomatoes, with extra virgin olive oil for a power pairing worth every bite.