Studies have shown that a compound in olive oil prevents the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, the same way NSAIDs work. By inhibiting these enzymes, inflammation and the increase in pain sensitivity associated with them is dampened. Researchers say that 3 and a half tablespoons of olive oil is equal to a 200-mg tablet of ibuprofen, but it’s 400 calories, so consume this healthy fat while you give up other ones, like butter.
