Health benefits of extra virgin olive oil – Keeping it real
admin | June 4, 2011There have been many claims made as to the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil – While a few are well reasoned, many are over the top. Statements like “this study proves that EVOO consumption cures this cancer or that cancer” aren’t uncommon. However, these Chuck Norris type claims are usually based on a single study involving cell lines propogated in test tubes and then subjected to various olive oil components of unknown bioavailabity at hundreds or thousands of times the concentrations naturally found in EVOO. Clearly, while these in vitro studies provide a good starting point for further research ‘in the field’, they, by themselves are too far removed from reality to justify the definitive claims that often follow their publication.
I was recently asked to review the myriad of health literature on extra virgin olive oil and put my naturally scientifically trained conservative part of my brain to derive a reasoned health statement regarding the benefits of extra virgin olive oil. Here’ what I came up with:
Extra Virgin olive oil is distinguished from all other oils in that it is richly endowed with a unique combination of monounsaturated fats, polyphenols and phytosterols.
A consistent body of scientific evidence exists that diets rich in these three natural components are associated with:
– lower levels of “bad cholesterol” (LDL) and higher levels of “good cholesterol” (HDL).
– lower levels of heart-unfriendly oxidised LDL’s.
– reduced DNA oxidative damage which in turn is related to a reduced risk of some cancers.
– reduced incidence of hypertension.
– improved glycemic control, which is particularly advantageous to diabetic patients.
Agreed, the wording is measured, which may not suit everyones marketing style when it comes to explaining the health benefits of their EVOO. But hopefully this may give some direction on how to reasonably spruik the benefits of eating extra virgin olive oil.
Richard G.