Health Benefits of 6 Italian Ingredients

Italian cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients. The traditional Italian foods are Mediterranean style – meaning simple and natural. Therefore, their ingredients like prosciutto Cotto, cheeses, and cured meats are known for their health benefits. In this article, we have listed six ingredients of Italian cuisine along with the benefits its offers for individuals.

Olive Oil

Basically, with every Italian dish, you’ll need a drizzle of olive oil. Based on research, the consumption of 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil regularly can reduce the chances of any cardio disease by 10 percent. This rich ingredient has monounsaturated fatty acids along with vitamin E, and other healthy compounds that assist in reducing inflammation and prevent the formation of arterial plaques. Furthermore, it also improves insulin sensitivity and blood pressure.

Balsamic Vinegar

This Italian vinegar is made in wooden barrels like wine. It is made using grapes, which makes it low in calories and a product with various benefits. It has known to reduce blood pressure, keep sugar and cholesterol at a healthy level. Additionally, it is also known to help with migraines and digestion.

Prosciutto Cotto

The Cotto is present in different forms. Therefore, the nutritional value and prosciutto Cotto calories differ with each ham. However, there are several common health benefits that this meat has to offer. It includes,

• A source of Vitamin B12, B6, B1, B2, B3.
• It helps in the production of red blood cells.
• A good source of Omega-3 and protein that helps with supporting cognitive function.
• The Prosciutto is rich in protein and has all the essential amino-acid that helps with muscle building.

Beans

Beans are the staple of Italian cuisine that is widely used in entrée dishes. This ingredient is rich in antioxidants, vitamin B, iron, calcium, and zinc. Also, they are low in calories and are beneficial for patients with diabetes and heart problems. From cannellini, borlotti, to garbanzalo beans, they all are an important part of Italian meals. Sogno Toscano has the best stock of natural Italian ingredients. So, try out their beans for healthy starter dishes.

Seafood

When used along with olive oil, it is a healthy source of fat in Italian cuisine. They are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids that help to deal with high blood pressure issues, and also improves cardiovascular health. Furthermore, shellfishes are a great source of vitamin B and selenium that is essential to support the immune system.

Italian Cheese

Although, all cheese have some common characteristics, the parmesan, Italian cheese, has unique benefits that include:

• It is rich in protein.
• It is easily digestible.
• The lactose level is low.
• A good source for minerals, including calcium, magnesium, sodium, etc.
• It is a good supply of Omega-3 fatty acids, like DHA and EPA

These are the top six simple staples of Italian cuisine. These ingredients are known for their freshness and the benefits for health they offer including the support for the immune system. With cheese and prosciutto Cotto, Italian ingredients offer regional flavors and are considered to be one of the healthiest.