Today, much is being made of the benefits of olive oil as part of a healthy “Mediterranean” diet. However, what is less known is that 99% of the health benefits are directly related to the level of ‘polyphenols’ in the oil. To achieve these levels it’s important to choose the right variety of olives, harvest early and cold press, ideally in anaerobic conditions, using the latest machinery. This should produce the best quality extra virgin olive oil with the highest levels of polyphenols with maximum health benefits.

“Polyphenols” is an umbrella term for the family of naturally occurring plant compounds comprising multiple ‘phenol’ units. There are at least 25 different types found in extra virgin olive oil, of which most significant are tyrosols which include oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and oleocanthal. The main health claims relating to these compounds are that they act as very powerful natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.

The science around the benefits of polyphenols is developing fast. We have asked a local Lazio Dietitian, Dr Martina Guglietti to summarise of some of their potential health benefits….

Summary of the Potential Health Benefits of Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil High in Polyphenols

Dr. Martina Guglietti – Dietitian

Mail: dietista.guglietti@gmail.com

A. Polyphenols including oleuropein:

1. Reduced cardiovascular risk: The main health benefits of polyphenols and partisularly oleuropein is the reduction of the risk of heart disease, mainly due to their antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help reduce chronic inflammation, the main risk factor for heart disease.
2. Reduced blood pressure and cholesterol: In addition, diets enriched with polyphenols tend to lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol (low-density lipids), colloquially known as “bad cholesterol,” and increase levels of HDL cholesterol (high-density lipids) or “good” cholesterol.
3. Decreased risk of diabetes: In addition to providing heart health benefits, polyphenols have been shown to lower blood sugar levels, decreasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Polyphenols appear to help stimulate insulin secretion, which in turn also keeps blood sugar levels stable .
4. Anti Ageing. Polyphenols are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Ageing is caused by the accumulation of time-dependent cellular damage, which is linked to a progressive decline in physiological functions at the tissue and body level. Scientific research has indicated that polyphenols have a direct association with the reduced occurrence of diseases chronic and neurodegenerative and counteract the ageing process.
5. Benefits for the gut: In addition to helping prevent certain chronic diseases, some scientific studies also show that extra virgin olive oil high in polyphenols promotes the growth of more diverse beneficial gut bacteria, which aid digestion and can aid weight management.
6. A healthy immune system: Polyphenols have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antiatherogenic, antithrombotic and antimutagenic effects. Scientific studies point the ability of polyphenols to modulate the human immune system by influencing the proliferation of white blood cells and also the production of cytokines or other factors that participate in immunological defence.
7. Skin and hair health: Polyphenols thanks to their antioxidant  effect neutralize free radicals, slowing down skin ageing and promoting hair growth. Due to their stimulation of collagen production they can help keep the skin elastic and toned, improving its texture. Polyphenols also fight free radicals that damage the structure of the hair, making it more fragile and dull. They also promote better oxygenation of the scalp, stimulating hair growth and strengthening hair follicles.
8. Anti obesity: Polyphenols interfere with the absorption of fats in the intestine, contributing to the reduction of fat accumulation. In addition, certain polyphenols can affect hunger and satiety centres in the brain, helping to reduce appetite and control binge eating.
9. Vitamin D: Vitamin D is a regulator of calcium metabolism and therefore also promotes proper mineralization of the skeleton. Maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D3 through sun exposure, diet, and, if necessary, supplementation can help reduce the risk of several chronic diseases and improve quality of life.
10. Vitamin E: It is essential for the human body and plays a vital role in several functions. It can fight cell damage and cognitive decline (brain, skin, and eyes), helps boost the immune system, and may help protect against cardiovascular diseases.

NOTE: No dietary supplement should be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Their nutrients, as we have seen, make them a valuable ally for the prevention of various chronic diseases and for the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and together with a healthy diet and regular sports activity they are a winning formula for achieving optimal physical and mental well-being.