Differences in Spanish Olives

• Spain produces the largest number of olives in a variety of types, including Manzanilla, Hojiblanca and black. Each contains its own unique benefits. Black olives contain more salt than green olives, but also more iron. Manzanilla olives, one of the most popular, are higher in vitamin E. Hojiblanca olives contain the most fiber.

Nutritional Information

• All olives are high in antioxidants, contain monounsaturated fats and are rich in vitamin E, iron and copper. Olives also are low in calories: a cup of green olives has 100 calories, and a cup of black olives has slightly fewer than 100 calories.

Health Benefits

• Olives are believed to help reduce heart disease, colon cancer and the intensity of hot flashes during menopause. Because of their protective effect on cells, they also are believed to help reduce the severity of asthma and arthritis.

Beauty Benefits

• Since ancient times, the oils in olives have been used to improve complexion and provide protection from the sun.

Romantic Benefits

• Olives have long been considered an aphrodisiac. Although it hasn't been proven scientifically, some say that green olives make men more virile, and black olives increase a woman's sex drive.