Olive Oil and Health
Superior extra virgin olive oil is a unique gift given to us in abundance by nature, originating from the blessed Crete. This oil is a true treasure for our health.
Anti-inflammatory effect
Chronic inflammation is a major cause of many modern diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s. One important function of olive oil is to fight inflammation. Several studies have shown that oleic acid, which is abundant in olive oil, reduces inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein. The main anti-inflammatory effect of olive oil can be attributed to the antioxidants it contains, such as oleocanthal, which works similarly to ibuprofen.
Protection against cardiovascular diseases
Cardiovascular diseases, especially heart attacks, are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Many studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet, rich in olive oil, reduces the risk of heart attacks and death by up to 30%.
Olive oil against cancer
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide today. Studies show that people in Mediterranean countries have a relatively lower risk of cancer, possibly due to the effects of olive oil. A major factor in the development of cancer is oxidation and free radical damage. Olive oil, rich in antioxidants, reduces the damage caused by oxidative stress. Oleic acid in olive oil is highly resistant to oxidation and has beneficial properties that affect cancer genes. Research has also shown that the nutrients in olive oil fight cancer at the molecular level.
Effects of olive oil on cardiovascular diseases
- Reduces inflammation: As mentioned above, olive oil protects the body against inflammation, which is largely responsible for cardiovascular diseases.
- Protection of LDL cholesterol: Olive oil protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation, which can be a precursor to heart disease.
- Improvement of endothelial function: Olive oil improves the function of the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels.
- Prevents blood clots: Olive oil helps prevent blood clots, crucial in reducing the risk of heart attacks.
- Lowers blood pressure: Olive oil significantly lowers blood pressure and can reduce the need for blood pressure medication by up to 48%.
Olive oil against Alzheimer's
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common neurodegenerative disease and a leading cause of dementia. A hallmark of Alzheimer’s is the accumulation of proteins in the form of amyloid plaques on the neurons in our brains. A study in mice found that a compound in olive oil helped remove these plaques from the brain. Also, a study in humans who followed a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil found that it had a positive effect on brain function and reduced the risk of neurological and cognitive disorders.
Nutritional value of olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil has a particularly high nutritional value. It contains vitamins E and K and contains beneficial fatty acids.
Lipid and vitamin analysis:
- Saturated fats: 14 g
- Monounsaturated fats: 73 g (mainly 18-carbon oleic acid)
- Omega-6: 9.7 g
- Omega-3: 0.7 g
- Cholesterol: 0
- Vitamin E: 72% of the RDA
- Vitamin K: 75% of the RDA
The high nutritional value of olive oil lies in the antioxidants it contains. These phytonutrients are bioactive and many of them help protect against a number of diseases and health conditions.
With these valuable properties, superior extra virgin olive oil is not only a tasty addition to meals, but also a valuable ally for good health.