I have used olive oil for years to cook with. I only use other cooking oil when making cakes. You can purchase virgin, extra virgin or non virgin olive oil. The extra virgin olive oil is the healthiest one. It is the one that has had less chemical refining. Extra virgin is the one that is in its most natural form. Most cooks know that olive oil is the best cooking oil for heart health. It helps to lower your cholesterol and also helps control blood sugars. It actually gives protection from heart attacks and strokes. I am not saying that if you cook with olive oil you are exempt from heart disease. I am only saying it does have heart health benefits. Did you know olive oil is also good for your skin?

Olive oil can be used for skin problems such as dry skin and wrinkles. Olive oil can be used as a moisturizer or cleanser. People found to have the lowest amount of monounsaturated fatty acids in their diets are more likely to have damage from UV rays. Their skin will show damage and wrinkles caused from too much exposure to the sun. Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids and helps protect your skin. The fat in olive oil prevents sagging skin and discoloration of the skin. I have used an olive oil facial cleanser for a couple years and have found even olive oil external is good for your skin. I love the way it cleans your skin and makes it feel very soft. I also have thought back and remembered my face did not burn or even turn red while working out in my flowers this summer.

Studies have shown you only get the health benefit and the skin benefit from olive oil. Monounsaturated fats received from meats and animal products do not give the same benefits. If you rather use vegetable oil studies do show that you receive skin benefit from this oil as well.

Researchers explain that the skin care benefits may come partially from the cell protection that olive oil provides.
Causing the skin to resist damage from the sun. Studies also showed that people using olive oil on a regular basis generally have a healthier lifestyle and healthier diets. Lifestyle and diets have more influence on your skin than even cosmetics.

Just a quick little recipe to use olive oil in.

Marinated onions

Sliced red onions
parsley
olive oil
Allow all to marinate in olive oil overnight. Goes great served with beans, greens or even a sandwich.

The health benefits of olive oil continue to grow. Follow the link below for more information on the benefits of olive oil.

http://www.naturalnews.com/037458_olive_oil_skin_aging_wrinkles.html