Drink Extra Virgin Olive Oil High in Polyphenols: The Liquid Gold Your Body Loves
In health and wellness, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has long been celebrated not only as a culinary treasure but also as a powerful ally in promoting total well-being.
Renowned for its rich history in the Mediterranean diet, EVOO is more than just a flavourful drizzle — it's a science-backed superfood.
At the forefront of this health revolution is The Governor — one of the world's most polyphenol-rich extra virgin olive oils, offering unrivalled antioxidant potency in every spoonful.
Why Polyphenols Matter
Polyphenols are natural compounds found in many plants, including extra virgin olive oil. They act as potent antioxidants which offer significant health benefits. The unique polyphenols found in EVOO have been shown to combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and have been associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative conditions.
EVOO containing high polyphenol levels — like The Governor — delivers a concentrated dose of these health-enhancing molecules shown to lead to better health outcomes. The exact levels of polyphenols can be found on each of the product pages on the certificate of analysis and lab reports.
10 Reasons to Drink Extra Virgin Olive Oil Daily
1. Fights Diabetes
High-polyphenol EVOO improves insulin sensitivity and reduces inflammation. Clinical studies have shown that it helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by promoting better insulin function.
2. It's Good for the Heart
EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols that help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol while raising HDL (good) cholesterol. Regular consumption reduces arterial inflammation, improving blood flow and lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
3. Reduces High Blood Pressure
The polyphenols in EVOO support the endothelium — the inner lining of blood vessels — resulting in better vascular relaxation and lower blood pressure levels. It’s a natural way to manage hypertension.
4. Keeps Cholesterol in Check
Beyond just balancing cholesterol, EVOO reduces oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis. Its phenolic compounds also support healthy lipid profiles.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse
Oleocanthal, a phenolic compound unique to EVOO, has been shown to mimic the effects of ibuprofen. This gives EVOO remarkable anti-inflammatory properties, helping combat everything from arthritis to chronic disease.
6. Strengthens Bones
EVOO contributes to higher bone density thanks to vitamin K and anti-inflammatory agents that support bone mineralisation. Regular intake has been linked to lower osteoporosis risk.
7. Lowers Stroke Risk
Studies reveal that individuals who consume high amounts of olive oil have up to a 40% lower risk of stroke. The cardiovascular benefits, combined with anti-inflammatory effects, offer robust neurovascular protection.
8. Promotes Gut Health
Polyphenols act as prebiotics, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria. This promotes a balanced microbiome, reduces inflammation in the digestive tract, and supports conditions like IBS, Crohn’s, and ulcerative colitis.
9. Boosts Brain & Mood
EVOO’s healthy fats support brain structure and function, while its polyphenols increase serotonin levels. This results in improved mood, reduced anxiety, and lower rates of depression.
10. Radiant Skin, Hair & Nails
Drinking EVOO nourishes the body from within. It hydrates the skin, smooths fine lines, strengthens nails, and enhances hair’s shine and resilience. Rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, it’s a beauty elixir in every drop.
How to Drink Extra Virgin Olive Oil
To maximise benefits, drink 1 tablespoon of high-polyphenol EVOO daily, ideally on an empty stomach in the morning. You can also mix it with a dash of lemon juice or warm water if the flavour is intense. For those new to EVOO, start with smaller amounts and gradually increase to allow your system to adapt.
Understanding Olive Oil Labels
Not all olive oils are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
- "Extra Virgin": Indicates the highest quality with the lowest acidity.
- Cold-Pressed: Extracted without heat to preserve nutrients.
- Harvest Date: Fresher oil has higher antioxidant content.
- Polyphenol Content: Look for oils with 500+ mg/kg — The Governor contains 1800mg/kg
- Single Estate or Single Origin: Ensures quality control and authenticity.
Avoid oils that list only "pure olive oil" or "light olive oil" — these are refined and lack health benefits.
How to Store Extra Virgin Olive Oil
EVOO is sensitive to light, heat, and air.
- Keep in a cool, dark cupboard, away from the oven.
- Replace the lid straight after use to prevent oxidation.
- Use within 3 months once opened and within its best before date (2 years from its harvest date)
Calories in Extra Virgin Olive Oil
EVOO contains about 120 calories per tablespoon — all from healthy fats. While calorie-dense, it is incredibly satiating and supports metabolic health when consumed mindfully.
What Science Says
Countless studies, including those from the PREDIMED trial, support EVOO’s role in preventing heart disease, cognitive decline, and inflammation. Research from institutions like Harvard and the Mayo Clinic continues to validate the Mediterranean diet — with EVOO at its heart — as one of the healthiest ways to eat.
The evidence is clear.
Drinking high-polyphenol extra virgin olive oil daily can transform your health. From guarding your heart and brain to enhancing your skin and gut, EVOO is one of nature’s most powerful gifts. Choose quality, choose potency — choose The Governor.
Unlock the full potential of your health — one spoonful at a time.