Health Benefits

Polyphenols In Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Tackle Common Health Condition

^{Updated February 22nd 2024}

Summary

• Extra virgin olive oil has been listed in top 10 foods to help combat Candida – a common yeast infection.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil is packed with polyphenols – powerful antioxidants that can help break down excess candida.
• Extra virgin olive oil contains a compound called oleuropein, which has anti-fungal properties.
• Extra virgin olive oil helps to restore the natural balance of gut flora.
• Extra virgin olive oil provides the body with healthy fats that help to support a healthy immune system.

Contents

1. Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is Listed In Top 10 Foods to Help Combat Candida
2. The Top Ten Foods To Tackle Candidiasis
3. Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Oleuropein
4. Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Oleuropein

Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is Listed In Top 10 Foods to Help Combat Candida

As a health-conscious extra virgin olive oil lover, you may have heard about the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of this golden elixir. But did you know that it can also be a powerful weapon against candida overgrowth in the body? Candida is a naturally occurring yeast in our bodies that can cause trouble when its growth goes unchecked, leading to digestive issues, fatigue, and even skin problems.

Thankfully, there are natural solutions like extra virgin olive oil that can help combat candida and promote overall gut health. In this blog post, we will dive deeper into why extra virgin olive oil is one of the top foods to incorporate into your diet for managing candida levels in the body. Get ready to discover how this versatile ingredient can work wonders for both your taste buds and overall well-being!

Olive oil has been listed as one of the top 10 foods to help combat Candidiasis – a common yeast infection – thanks to the presence of powerful polyphenols in the olive fruit.

Candida is a type of yeast that normally lives in small amounts in places like your mouth and belly, or on your skin without causing any problems. But when the environment is right, the yeast can multiply and grow out of control. The infection it causes is called candidiasis.

The Top Ten Foods To Tackle Candidiasis

According to healthcentral.com,  Olive oil, avocado oil, flax oil, and primrose oil are packed with polyphenols – powerful antioxidants that can help break down excess candida. Additionally, olive oil contains the plant chemical oleuropein, which has anti-fungal properties and stimulates a healthy immune system. The other hero foods on Health Central’s list for fighting candida are:

• Seaweed
• Coconut Oil
• Lemon Juice
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Cloves
• Rutabaga
• Cinnamon
• Salmon
• Alliums

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Oleuropein

Candida is a type of yeast that naturally occurs in the gut, and while it is usually kept in balance by healthy gut flora, certain lifestyle factors can cause it to overgrow. When this happens, candida can lead to digestive issues, skin problems, and fatigue. Extra virgin olive oil has been shown to help combat candida overgrowth for several reasons. First, extra virgin olive oil contains a compound called oleupropein, which has anti-fungal properties. Second, extra virgin olive oil helps to restore the natural balance of gut flora. Finally, extra virgin olive oil provides the body with healthy fats that help to support a healthy immune system. As a result, extra virgin olive oil can be an effective tool in combating candida overgrowth.

As explained at thecandidadiet.com,  Olive leaf extract is derived from the dark green olive leaves and contains an active ingredient named Oleuropein. Scientific research has shown oleuropein to harbor an incredible array of health properties, including antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic ,and antiviral. New evidence has now suggested that olive leaf extract has the power to kill Candida albicans and ward off future overgrowth.

As well as being a natural and effective antifungal, olive leaf extract is shown to have anti-parasitic properties. It’s also been found that the extract contains almost double the antioxidant capacity than that of green tea, Vitamins C and E, and grape seed extract.

According to a 2015 study,  fresh olive leaf extract was able to effectively exhibit antifungal activity against Candida yeast. It appears that the Candida yeast is sensitive to the olive leaf extract, which indicates its efficacy as both a treatment and preventative for Candida symptoms such as oral thrush.

A similar study in 2016 showed oleuropein to have powerful antifungal activity against Candida albicans, with researchers noting that the oleuropein appeared to target various factors that the fungal infection needed to survive. It was also found that the oleuropein was able to inhibit the Candida from growing.

For more information on treatments for Candida, the rest of this article is available on at The Candida Diet.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Oleupropein

Morocco Gold And Oleupropein

Oleuropein aglycone is one of the chief polyphenols found in extra virgin olive oil. It is getting more and more global attention within the scientific and medical communities due to its biological properties including in anti-Alzheimer’s disease, anti-breast cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic effect, and anti-oxidative properties.

OA is derived from the de-glycosylation of oleuropein that exists in the leaves and stones of the olive fruit during the maturation period and is obtained during the pressing of the olives.

We have lots of useful information on the health benefits of oleupropein found in extra virgin olive oil here.  They include: anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and an Anti-Hyperglycemic Effect.

Showing how the polyphenols in best olive oil – extra virgin olive oil delivers further health benefits

^{Updated December 13th 2023}

Summary

• Extra virgin olive oil listed as a top food to maintain healthy blood pressure, says new report.
• The best olive oil takes its place in Today.com list alongside 16 other foods in management of hypertension.
• Extra virgin olive oil provide blood-pressure lowering effects due to polyphenols and oleic acid, which may help reduce overall risk factors, like blood pressure, for heart disease. 
• Morocco Gold’s latest harvest has produced a low acidity level of 0.2% together with an exceptionally high level of polyphenols.

Contents

1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil Makes New List of Top Foods For Blood Pressure
2. Why Diet Can Be As Crucial As Medication For Healthy Blood Pressure
3. Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is One of Top Foods For Blood Pressure Control
4. Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Blood Pressure Control
5. What Other Foods Can Lower Blood Pressure?

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Makes New List of Top Foods For Blood Pressure

Extra virgin olive oil has made the list of top foods to maintain healthy blood pressure, according to a new report on Today.com

The list, which includes 16 other essential foods to reduce blood pressure, describes extra virgin olive oil as the optimal fat choice in the management of hypertension.

Also on the list are foods that often appear alongside extra virgin olive oil on the Mediterranean Diet, including Avocado, Salmon, Almonds and Pumpkin Seeds.

High blood pressure affects millions of people, and finding ways to lower it can be challenging. Fortunately, certain foods can be incredibly beneficial in helping to bring it down. Fruits and vegetables are also key players in the game of lowering blood pressure.

By providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these foods help to relax blood vessels and decrease blood pressure. Another great food to add to your diet is salmon. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this fish can help reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure. Finally, nuts are a delicious source of potassium, magnesium, and fiber – all nutrients which can help contribute to a healthy blood pressure range. By incorporating these foods into your diet, you’ll be taking important steps towards lowering your blood pressure and improving your overall health.

Why Diet Can Be As Crucial As Medication For Healthy Blood Pressure

Making smart dietary choices is one effective way to keep high blood pressure in check. One such choice is including extra virgin olive oil in your diet. This oil has been found to have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart diseases, protecting against inflammation, and potentially even reducing blood pressure. Studies have shown that consuming extra virgin olive oil regularly can help decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

The presence of polyphenols in this oil is believed to be the reason behind its blood pressure-lowering effects, so it’s important to choose extra virgin olive oil over other types to fully reap its benefits. Adding extra virgin olive oil to your dishes not only enhances their flavor but also helps promote a healthy heart.

A recent article from Today points out that diet plays an important role in controlling blood pressure levels and – in some cases – choosing the right diet can be just as effective as medication in controlling blood pressure.

Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is One of Top Foods For Blood Pressure Control

The Today article refers to a 2020 study in the journal Nutrients describing olive oil as “ the optimal fat choice in the management protocols for hypertension in both healthy and cardiovascular disease patients.” Olive oil is high in polyphenols and oleic acid, which may help reduce overall risk factors, like blood pressure, for heart disease.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Blood Pressure Control

 Thanks to the recent spotlight on the Mediterranean Diet, extensive research has been done on the composition of best olive oil. What has been discovered is an extensive list of phytonutrients; one of the most praised is its polyphenols.

Polyphenols have been shown to reduce morbidity and/or slow down the progression of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and cancer diseases. The mechanism of action of polyphenols strongly relates to their antioxidant activity.

Polyphenols are known to decrease the level of reactive oxygen species in the human body. In addition, health-promoting properties of plant polyphenols comprise anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-mutagenic effects. There is a body of research demonstrating their ability to modulate the human immune system by affecting the proliferation and activity of white blood cells, as well as the production of cytokines or other factors that participate in immunological defence.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is High In Polyphenols

Our latset harvest has produced a low acidity level of 0.2% together with the highest level of polyphenols yet seen in our extra virgin olive oil.

What Other Foods Can Lower Blood Pressure?

If you are looking for a natural way to lower your blood pressure, the good news is that there are plenty of foods, in addition to extra virgin olive oil, that can help you achieve this goal. Among the top 16 foods that can lower blood pressure are leafy greens such as spinach and kale, berries like strawberries and blueberries, beans and lentils, fatty fish like salmon and sardines, whole grains such as oatmeal and brown rice, and fruits like bananas and avocados. By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can work towards reducing your blood pressure and improving your overall health. So, the next time you plan your meals, make sure to add these top 16 foods to your grocery list!

• Avocado
• Beets
• Lemons
• Dark chocolate
• Coffee
• Almonds
• Celery
• Spinach
• Apples
• Wild salmon
• Yogurt
• Pumpkin seeds
• Cinnamon
• Oregano
• Garlic
• Blueberries

All in all, extra virgin olive oil is proving to be one of the best foods to help with lower blood pressure. Not only is it delicious and can add great flavor to many dishes, but also it has a plethora of health benefits that can aid in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

The polyphenols found in extra virgin olive oil are antioxidants that help prevent damage from oxidation and inflammation caused by free radicals, thus reducing the risk for hypertension. It’s important to incorporate healthy cooking oils like extra virgin olive oil into your diet since they provide essential nutrients for sustaining healthy living habits. So next time you shop for ingredients to prepare meals, be sure to pick up some high-quality extra virgin olive oil and benefit from its amazing ability to lower blood pressure!

How Olive Oil Packed Mediterranean Diet May Reduce Prostate Cancer Risk

^{Updated March 13th 2023}

Summary

• Research studies are providing better and better documentation for the anti-cancer benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
• As few as 1–2 tablespoons of Extra Virgin Olive Oil per day have been associated with decreased risk of breast, respiratory tract, and digestive tract cancers.
• The overall phenolic content of Extra Virgin Olive Oil has been associated with a decreased ability of cancer cells to regenerate.
• Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil is high in polyphenols, including Oleuropein, Tyrosol and Hydroxytyrosol. These have been identified as having the most significant effect on cancerous cells.

Contents

1. New Study Links Mediterranean Diet With Reduced Prostate Cancer Risk
2. Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Reduced Cancer Risk
3. Polyphenol Oleocanthal In Extra Virgin Olive Oil
4. The Science Behind Olive Oil And Reduced Cancer Risk
5. Role Of Olive Oil In Reducing Oxidative Stress
6. How Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help Combat Cancer
7. Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is High In Polyphenols
8. Oleocanthal Induces LMP And Cathepsin Leakage In Cancer Cells.

Men who follow a Mediterranean Diet or Asian Diet, rich in fresh fruit and vegetables are less likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, according to new research.

The study, published by Cancers heaps further evidence on the health benefits of a Mediterranean Diet, which relies heavily on quality extra virgin olive oil as its primary source of healthy fat. 

As reported in Breakinglatestnews.com,  researchers the University of South Australia compared the concentrations of micronutrients in the plasma of prostate cancer patients with those of a control group, finding low levels of lutein, lycopene, alpha-carotene and selenium and high levels of iron, sulfur compounds and calcium in patients with prostate cancer.

Key Mediterranean Foods To Help Prevent Prostate Cancer

Morocco Fruit and Vegetable Market

In particular, men with plasma lycopene concentrations below 0.25 µg/mL and/or below 120 µg/mL of selenium had an increased risk of prostate cancer and are probably more sensitive to the harmful effects of radiation. Among the foods rich in lycopene we find tomatoes, melons, papayas, grapes, peaches and watermelons, while among the foods rich in selenium there are meat, fish, eggs and peanuts. Finally, according to the authors, consuming foods rich in these compounds is preferable to taking supplements.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Reduced Cancer Risk

Are you looking to reduce your risk of cancer with dietary changes? Look no further: the answer may lie in the delicious aroma and flavor of extra virgin olive oil. It has been a staple of Mediterranean diets for centuries, but its healing benefits have become well-documented only recently – many studies are now showing that its polyphenol content can protect from different kinds of cancer.

The findings follow numerous research studies which document the anti-cancer benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, another staple in the Mediterranean Diet.

The powerful health benefits of polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil has been recognised in a top six hit list of foods that help minimise the risk of cancer.

The presence of Oleocanthal in extra virgin olive oil gives it top billing in a handy new guide from eastmojo.com which outlines key foods that reduce cancer risk. It says:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains a powerful compound called Oleocanthal, which aids in the killing of cancer cells in the body without harming healthy cells. Because of its numerous health advantages, this potent healthy oil is a staple of the Mediterranean Diet. It can easily be used as cooking oil or as a salad dressing.

Polyphenol Oleocanthal In Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The importance and uniqueness of Oleocanthal in extra virgin olive oil is that it has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its anti-inflammatory action on the body is very similar to ibuprofen, one of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs most widely consumed.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as aspirin, paracetamol, and ibuprofen, can be differentiated from steroids because they have far fewer secondary effects. NSAIDS have proven to have very beneficial effects in diseases that involve chronic inflammation processes, such as degenerative and neurodegenerative illnesses (Alzheimer).

Extra Virgin Olive Oil sits alongside five other healthy boosting foods: green tea, tomatoes, onions & garlic, dark green vegetables and turmeric which should be incorporated in to our diet to boost chances of cancer prevention.

The Science Behind Olive Oil And Reduced Cancer Risk

Research studies are providing better and better documentation for the anti-cancer benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Early studies in this area were largely limited to research using rats and mice or research on cell cultures in the lab. But more recent studies have looked at people incorporating Extra Virgin Olive Oil into their everyday meal plan and have found encouraging results.

As few as 1–2 tablespoons of Extra Virgin Olive Oil per day have been associated with decreased risk of breast, respiratory tract, and digestive tract cancers. In the case of the digestive tract, reduced risk seems more likely in the upper tract (stomach and small intestine) than in the lower digestive tract (large intestine, including the colon).

Scientists have looked at several different mechanisms that might allow Extra Virgin Olive Oil to provide these anti-cancer effects. One group of studies have focused on the secoiridoids, oleuropein and decarboxylmethyl oleuropein, and determined that these Extra Virgin Olive Oil phytonutrients help shift some of our metabolic pathways in the direction of better stress resistance. In addition, the overall phenolic content of Extra Virgin Olive Oil has been associated with a decreased ability of cancer cells to regenerate. At least some of this effect involves the ability of two phenols in Extra Virgin Olive Oil—tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol—to block activity of an enzyme called matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MM-2).

Role Of Olive Oil In Reducing Oxidative Stress

The multiplication of cancer cells depends on an adequate supply of oxygen, and in order to obtain this supply of oxygen, cancer cell growth is often accompanied by the formation of new blood vessels (through a process called angiogenesis). Because the activity of MM-2 is needed to trigger this process of new blood vessel formation, substances that block MM-2 activity can also lessen the likelihood of new blood vessel formation. The tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol in Extra Virgin Olive Oil may decrease the likelihood of cancer cell regeneration by interfering with angiogenesis and lowering the supply of oxygen that would otherwise be available for new blood vessel formation.

How Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help Combat Cancer

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is probably the most extensively researched foodstuff on the planet and the health benefits are evidence based. Thanks to the recent spotlight on the Mediterranean Diet, extensive research has been done on the composition of best olive oil. What has been discovered is an extensive list of phytonutrients; one of the most praised is its polyphenols.

Beneficial effects of natural plant polyphenols on the human body have been evaluated in a number of scientific research projects. Bioactive polyphenols are natural compounds of various chemical structures. Their sources are mostly fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, roots, bark, leaves of different plants, herbs, whole grain products, processed foods (dark chocolate), as well as tea, coffee, and red wine. Polyphenols are believed to reduce morbidity and/or slow down the development of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases as well as cancer. Biological activity of polyphenols is strongly related to their antioxidant properties. They tend to reduce the pool of reactive oxygen species as well as to neutralize potentially carcinogenic metabolites. A broad spectrum of health-promoting properties of plant polyphenols comprises antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-mutagenic effects. Scientific studies present the ability of polyphenols to modulate the human immune system by affecting the proliferation of white blood cells, and also the production of cytokines or other factors that participate in the immunological defense. The aim of the review is to focus on polyphenols of olive oil in context of their biological activities.

Keywords: olive oil, Olea europea, polyphenols, oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, anticancer therapy

Polyphenols have been shown to reduce morbidity and/or slow down the progression of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and cancer diseases. The mechanism of action of polyphenols strongly relates to their antioxidant activity. Polyphenols are known to decrease the level of reactive oxygen species in the human body. In addition, health-promoting properties of plant polyphenols comprise anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-mutagenic effects. There is a body of research demonstrating their ability to modulate the human immune system by affecting the proliferation and activity of white blood cells, as well as the production of cytokines or other factors that participate in immunological defence.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is High In Polyphenols

Our latset harvest has produced a low acidity level of 0.2% together with the highest level of polyphenols yet seen in our extra virgin olive oil. This includes the key polyphenols identified as having the most significant effect on cancerous cells, Oleuropein, Hydroxytyrosol and Tyrosol.

Investigating Polyphenolic Compounds In Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Many studies have identified the components of extra virgin olive oil which confer health benefits, but few have tested the effect of high phenolic extra virgin olive oil on cancer.

Dr Limor Goren, Hunter College of the City University of New York and Dr David Foster, has recently carried out research to explore the anti-cancer effects of oleocanthal, a phenolic compound found in extra virgin olive oil. Oleocanthal is the molecule thought to be responsible for the ‘peppery’ sensation at the back of your throat when you take certain extra virgin olive oils. In fact, this is how the molecule got its name, ’oleo’ means oil and ‘canth’ is Greek for stinging or prickly.

The study has shown that oleocanthal specifically kills human cancer cells, but not normal, non-cancerous cells. The authors suggest that this is due to the ability of oleocanthal to induce the death of cancer cells through lysosomal membrane permeabilisation (LMP). Permeabilising the lysosomal membrane allows digestive enzymes stored inside this organelle to be released, which preferentially causes cell death in cancer cells. In their latest study, they found that oleocanthal was able to induce LMP in cancer cells grown in the laboratory. The team tested whether the observed damage to lysozymes was actually due to permeation of the membrane, or whether something else could have damaged them. Interestingly, purified lysosomes outside the cell were not affected by oleocanthal, indicating that oleocanthal only induces lysosomal permeability in a cellular context.

One limitation identified by Dr Goren is that this work used purified oleocanthal, therefore it is not known whether oleocanthal in a more natural form, i.e. as a component of olive oil, can cause a similar outcome. To overcome this, the group carried out a similar experiment using olive oil enriched cell culture media and found similar results.

Furthermore, recognising that different olive oils have different oleocanthal concentrations due to their origin, harvest time, and processing methods, the researchers tested a variety of olive oils to determine their respective concentrations of oleocanthal, which ranged from very low to very high. The olive oils that had high oleocanthal content completely killed cancer cells in vitro (in a petri dish), in a manner similar to purified oleocanthal. The olive oils with average oleocanthal content reduced viability, but to a lesser extent. Those with no oleocanthal had no effect on cell viability.

Oleocanthal extends life span of mice with tumours

In addition to the findings in cancer cells discussed above, Dr Goren and colleagues also found that injection of oleocanthal into mice engineered to develop pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours, reduced their tumour burden and extended the lifespan of the mice. More specifically, the oleocanthal injections extended the lives of the mice by an average of four weeks. Based on lifespan conversion, if oleocanthal has the same effect in humans, it might extend human life by more than 10 years.

Oleocanthal induces LMP and cathepsin leakage in cancer cells.

A separate study, which was conducted by scientists from Weill Cornell Medicine, Rutgers University, and Albert Einstein College of Medicine in addition to Hunter College, supports the findings of how oleocanthal kills cancer cells. As mentioned previously, oleocanthal induces damage to cancer cells’ lysosomes, cell components that contain enzymes used to break down larger molecules like proteins. The oleocanthal degrades the integrity of the lysosomal membrane, releasing the enzymes into the cells’ cytoplasm, which leads to cell death. Cancer cells often have larger and more numerous lysosomes, making them more vulnerable to oleocanthal than other cells. Furthermore, many cancer cells upregulate the formation and turnover of lysosomes and their enzymatic contents.

Extra virgin olive oil is a tried and tested natural remedy for many ailments but in order to potentially harness its benefits for cancer treatment more needs to be understood about the type of olive oil, and the dose required in humans. In addition, this study shows that it is not just any olive oil that is important, but the high concentration of phenolic compounds of the selected oil that is crucial.

Shows how both these diets, including best olive oil – extra virgin olive oil – delivers more health benefits.

^{Updated December 14th 2022}

Summary

• The Keto Diet and the Mediterranean Diet have a lot in common – including their effects on managing blood sugar levels and preventing preventing Type 2 diabetes.
• Diabetes often lowers HDL (good) cholesterol levels and raises triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Both increase the risk for heart disease and stroke. 
• The high levels of polyphenols in cold pressed extra virgin olive oil can protect against coronary heart disease by  reducing cholesterol absorption, which in turn can result in decreased delivery of cholesterol to the liver.
• Studies have demonstrated better insulin secretion and better regulation of blood sugar levels following the inclusion of extra virgin olive oil in participants lunch meals.
• Beneficial effects of natural plant polyphenols on the human body have been evaluated in a number of scientific research projects.
• Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil is high in polyphenols, including Tyrosol.
• Tyrosol is one of the most abundant polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil, where they occur as such, or in the form of esters of elenolic acid.
• Its beneficial properties for human health are strongly related to the ability of the molecule to scavenge free radicals and reactive oxygen/nitrogen species as well as to activate endogenous antioxidant systems in the body.

Contents

1. Mediterranean and Keto Diets with Olive Oil
2. Less Fiber With Keto Diet Than Mediterranean Diet
3. Which Is Best: Mediterranean Diet Or Keto Diet?
4. How Olive Oil Can Stabilise Blood Sugar Levels
5. Blood Sugar Levels And Extra Virgin Olive Oil
6. Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is High In Polyphenols
7. Tyrosol : A Key Polyphenol In Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil
8. Health Benefits Of Tyrosol
9. Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Diabetes : A Further Study
10. What is blood sugar (glucose)?

Mediterranean and Keto Diets with Olive Oil

You may think of the Keto Diet and the Mediterranean Diet as two very different things. But as it turns out, they have a lot in common – including their effects on blood sugar levels. In fact, research shows that both diets can be helpful for people with diabetes or prediabetes. Here’s a look at how keto and mediterranean diet work to improve blood sugar control, and why they might be good options for you.

According to a new study from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, both The Mediterranean Diet and The Keto Diet were shown to be helpful in managing blood sugar levels and preventing preventing Type 2 diabetes.

As reported in parade.com, the study followed 40 people with pre-type two diabetes as they adhered to the Mediterranean diet for 12 weeks. Then, they committed to the ketogenic diet for 12 weeks.  Researchers pointed out that there are some ways the diets are similar. What they have in common is that both are low-carbohydrate. Non-starchy vegetables, foods low in sugar, and avoiding refined grains are all key components of both diets. However, the key differences noted were that the Mediterranean diet includes legumes, fruit, and whole grains while the ketogenic diet minimizes these foods.

Less Fiber With Keto Diet Than Mediterranean Diet

As well as establishing that both diets contributed to stabilising blood sugar, study researchers found that people on the ketogenic diet consumed less fiber than those on the Mediterranean diet.

Speaking in Parade.com, Registered dietitian Melissa Rifkin, RD, says that fiber is a key nutrient for keeping blood sugar levels steady. “The Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains, which all contain fiber. Per serving, most of these foods contain at least two grams of fiber, and some have over four grams in a single serving,” she says.

Registered dietitianAyat Sleymann, RDN, adds that besides eating a diet rich in the foods mentioned above, following the Mediterranean diet also includes eating fish and seafood two times a week, eating moderate portions (daily or weekly) of eggs, dairy, cheese, and eggs, and rarely eating meat, ultra-processed foods, and sweets.

Rifkin explains that fiber slows down digestion which reduces the speed at which carbohydrate, including sugar, enters the bloodstream. “When carb slowly enters the bloodstream there is less likely to be a significant jump in blood sugar.” she says. “Also by replacing saturated fats with more heart-healthy fats like olive oil, sensitivity to insulin improves,” Sleymann adds. This is how the Mediterranean diet keeps blood sugar levels steady.

Even though study participants who followed the ketogenic diet consumed less fiber than when they stuck to the Mediterranean diet, Sleymann says the reason why the eating plan was successful in keeping blood sugar levels steady is because it’s low-carb. “[This] eliminates large spikes in blood sugar that can occur when carbohydrates, mainly simple carbohydrates, are consumed,” she says.

Which Is Best: Mediterranean Diet Or Keto Diet?

As we have seen from the research, both the Mediterranean diet and the ketogenic diet had positive effects on blood sugar levels, so which one is best to follow?

It is worth noting that, when it comes to overall heart health, The Mediterranean Diet is frequently reported to come out on top.

The British Heart Foundation carried out a study that showed increasing your extra virgin olive oil consumption by 10g a day could cut your risk of cardiovascular death and heart disease by 10 per cent.

Researchers analysed the effect of a Mediterranean diet on the prevention of cardiovascular disease in more than 7,200 men and women between 55 and 80 years old over an average of five years.

Participants were split randomly into three groups – a Mediterranean Diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil, a Mediterranean Diet supplemented with nuts, and a control group following a low fat diet.

Extra virgin olive oil is a better quality than ordinary olive oil as it contains high levels of antioxidants also found in grape skins, olives and sesame seeds which are thought to benefit the heart. A second study reanalysed the results of the research and found the antioxidants also helped reduce mortality rates.

How Olive Oil Can Stabilise Blood Sugar Levels

According to the American Heart Association (AHA)  diabetes often lowers HDL (good) cholesterol levels and raises triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Both increase the risk for heart disease and stroke.  But, the high levels of polyphenols in cold pressed extra virgin olive oil can protect against coronary heart disease by  reducing cholesterol absorption, which in turn can result in decreased delivery of cholesterol to the liver.

Foods Which Reduce The Risk Of High Cholesterol And Diabetes

According to a recent report in ActiveBeat.com Olive Oil is one of ten foods which can help reduce your levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol.

The report explains how olive oil contains heart-healthy phytosterols, which are plant-based compounds that help block cholesterol absorption.

Researchers at Biofortis Clinical Research, claim that consuming extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) decreases heart rate and diastolic blood pressure. The study monitored the effects of extra virgin olive oil on a group of 54 healthy male and female participants, for a total of 21 days and discovered that olive oil decreased LDL (bad) cholesterol by 11-percent. Interestingly enough, the same study found that corn oil was able to lower total cholesterol by roughly 9-percent.

Blood Sugar Levels And Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Regulation of blood sugar (glucose) especially after eating is one regulatory system that has a definite friend in Extra Virgin Olive Oil. One recent study on individuals diagnosed with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) helps explain the ability of Extra Virgin Olive Oil to improve blood sugar regulation.

Like this name implies, IFG is a condition in which blood sugar levels are too high, even when no food is being eaten and digested. However, in this particular study, participants were given a little less than one tablespoon of Extra Virgin Olive Oil along with a familiar lunch meal of pasta, salad, fruit, and a slice of ham. When the participants’ insulin and blood sugar levels were measured at one hour and two hours after lunch, their blood sugar levels were found to be significantly lower due to this added Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

Researchers for this study went one step further, however. They looked at potential ways in which Extra Virgin Olive Oil might have produced these desirable effects. What they found were higher levels of incretins, specifically glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) in the blood of participants after consuming Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Since these incretins are molecules that stimulate more insulin production, raising their levels resulted in more insulin secretion and more removal of sugars from the blood.

In short, these study participants achieved better insulin secretion and better regulation of blood sugar levels following their lunch meal through the addition of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

How Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help Improve Blood Sugar Levels

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is probably the most extensively researched foodstuff on the planet and the health benefits are evidence based. Thanks to the recent spotlight on the Mediterranean Diet, extensive research has been done on the composition of best olive oil. What has been discovered is an extensive list of phytonutrients; one of the most praised is its polyphenols.

Beneficial effects of natural plant polyphenols on the human body have been evaluated in a number of scientific research projects. Bioactive polyphenols are natural compounds of various chemical structures. Their sources are mostly fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, roots, bark, leaves of different plants, herbs, whole grain products, processed foods (dark chocolate), as well as tea, coffee, and red wine. Polyphenols are believed to reduce morbidity and/or slow down the development of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases as well as cancer. Biological activity of polyphenols is strongly related to their antioxidant properties. They tend to reduce the pool of reactive oxygen species as well as to neutralize potentially carcinogenic metabolites. A broad spectrum of health-promoting properties of plant polyphenols comprises antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-mutagenic effects. Scientific studies present the ability of polyphenols to modulate the human immune system by affecting the proliferation of white blood cells, and also the production of cytokines or other factors that participate in the immunological defense. The aim of the review is to focus on polyphenols of olive oil in context of their biological activities.

Keywords: olive oil, Olea europea, polyphenols, oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, anticancer therapy

Polyphenols have been shown to reduce morbidity and/or slow down the progression of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and cancer diseases. The mechanism of action of polyphenols strongly relates to their antioxidant activity. Polyphenols are known to decrease the level of reactive oxygen species in the human body. In addition, health-promoting properties of plant polyphenols comprise anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-mutagenic effects. There is a body of research demonstrating their ability to modulate the human immune system by affecting the proliferation and activity of white blood cells, as well as the production of cytokines or other factors that participate in immunological defence.

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is High In Polyphenols

Our latset harvest has produced a low acidity level of 0.2% together with the highest level of polyphenols yet seen in our extra virgin olive oil.

Tyrosol : A Key Polyphenol In Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Tyrosol is a phenylethanoid, a derivative of phenethyl alcohol. It is a natural phenolic antioxidant present in a variety of natural sources. The principal source for human diet is in high quality extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold. As an antioxidant, tyrosol can protect cells against injury due to oxidation.

Along with hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol is one of the most abundant polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil, where they occur as such, or in the form of esters of elenolic acid. There is an increasing level of research into these polyphenols and their properties to determine which is the most significant contributor towards the range of health benefits associated with high quality extra virgin olive oil.

Tyrosol is a colourless solid at room temperature, melting at 91–92°C and slightly soluble in water. Hydroxytyrosol on the other hand appears as a clear colourless liquid at room temperature. It is now believed that this affects the rate of ‘uptake’ when ingested with hydoxytyrosol acting more quickly in the gut, however tyrosol accumululating intercellularly over time to provide longer term protection due to its higher concentration and good bioavailability.

Source: Sciencedirect.com

Health Benefits Of Tyrosol

Its beneficial properties for human health are strongly related to the ability of the molecule to scavenge free radicals and reactive oxygen/nitrogen species as well as to activate endogenous antioxidant systems in the body. Free radical scavenging properties have been convincingly confirmed in studies on rats with alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Diabetes : A Further Study

In a further study, conducted at Sapienza University in Romen, researchers examined the health benefits of a traditional Mediterranean diet, including extra virgin olive oil for people with diabetes

This was a small study involving only 25 participants, all of whom ate a typical Mediterranean lunch consisting primarily of fruits, vegetables, grains and fish on two separate occasions. For the first meal, they added 10g of extra virgin olive oil. For the second, they added 10g of corn oil. After each meal, the participants blood glucose levels were tested. The rise in blood sugar levels was much smaller after the meal with extra virgin olive oil than after the meal with corn oil.

“Lowering blood glucose and cholesterol may be useful to reduce the negative effects of glucose and cholesterol on the cardiovascular system,” said Francesco Violo, lead author of the study.

The findings were consistent with previous studies, which have linked extra virgin olive oil to higher levels of insulin, making it beneficial to people with type 2 diabetes.
More surprising, however, were the reduced levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, associated with the extra virgin olive oil meal.

The researchers stressed that consuming extra virgin olive oil on its own is not going to provide the benefits observed during the study. Rather, it has to be consumed within the context of a balanced diet.

Extra virgin olive oil lowers blood glucose and cholesterol .

What is blood sugar (glucose)?

Blood sugar (glucose) is the key to keeping the working of the body in good condition. When blood sugar levels start to fluctuate, the body starts showing signs of unhealthy functioning.

Glucose plus healthy fat (monosaturated fats such as are found in Extra Virgin Olive Oil) is the preferred source of energy in the body. While glucose is important, it is also important to keep it in moderation. When we eat, our body immediately starts processing glucose. Enzymes breakdown with the help of pancreas.

In some people (diabetics) people cannot completely rely on pancreas to work. Diabetes is a condition where the pancreas doesn’t produce adequate insulin.

Maintaining glucose levels is important for normal functioning of the body. The ideal range of sugar levels is 90-130 mg/dL while fasting, whereas post meals, it needs to be less than 180 mg/DL.

Reasons why blood sugar rises:

• Heavy meals
• Stress
• Underlying illness
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Skipping medication

Further ways to lower blood sugar:

You should have foods you enjoy but keep a check on what goes inside the body because food can help in diabetes care and diabetes management. As well as Extra Virgin Olive Oil certain lifestyle choices that help manage blood glucose levels include;

1. Raw cooked food: Opt for low carb vegetables such as eggplants, tomatoes, sprouts and mushrooms. You can top it with some pepper or garlic seasoning.

• Green leafy food: If you enjoy salads, then you can try a spinach salad. They are rich in health and low in carb. You could top it with some chia seeds for the extra crunch.

• Low calorie drinks: Water is best, but you do need an alternative sometimes. You could try some cinnamon tea. They are low carb and also keep you feeling full.

• Nuts & Seeds: Nuts prevent heart disease and control blood sugar levels. Seeds like flax seeds help improve fasting glucose levels and lower bad cholesterol.

• Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle is the major cause of diabetes. It is essential that you invest in some low duty exercise daily along with your medication.

Individuals who are suffering from diabetes and related issues usually show drastic improvement in their development when they self-participate in diabetes management. It is recommended to track your blood glucose levels regularly using a glucometer as to a keep track of your blood glucose level patterns.

In the next of our series of articles that looks at the science behind the health-related benefits of high-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil like Morocco Gold we look at the positive impact on blood sugar (glucose) levels.

Source: Beatoapp.com

One Of The Many Amazing Health Benefits Of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

^{Updated November 23rd 2022}

Summary

• Digestive disorders are widespread and can be brought on with little or no warning.
• The cost of digestive disorders in the USA can range from $18k to $150k per year.
• Extra virgin olive oil has been used to treat digestive disorders for centuries. Its beneficial properties are now being confirmed by epidemiological studies and a wealth of scientific data.
• Extra virgin olive oil has beneficial effects on: the stomach; the hepatic-biliary system; the pancreas; the intestines.
• The polyphenols in Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil provide the health benefits within the digestive system, in particular – Hydroxytyrosol and Tyrosol.
• People with digestive disease often suffer in silence because of the stigma associated with digestive symptoms. Many won’t even discuss gut trouble with their doctors. When they finally do, it’s because the pain, blood, fatigue or constant bowel disruptions have become unbearable. Severe symptoms result in missed work-days, ER visits, emergency surgeries, and finally long-term prescriptions.

Contents

1. Rising Cost of Digestive Diseases
2. Understanding Digestive Disorders
3. How Does Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help Digestion
4. Extra virgin olive oil & the stomach
5. Extra virgin olive oil & the hepatic-biliary system
6. Extra Virgin Olive Oil & The Pancreas
7. Extra Virgin Olive Oil & The Intestines
8. How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Boost Beneficial Gut Bacteria
9. The Polyphenols Present In Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil
10. Which Polyphenols Protect The Digestive System?
11. Health Benefits Of Hydroxytyrosol In Extra Virgin Olive Oil
12. Polyphenol Tyrosol : A Key Polyphenol In Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Rising Cost of Digestive Diseases

1 in 3 Americans struggle with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and other digestive conditions daily. Healthcare spending on a single patient with a digestive disease can range from $18k to $150k per year. Of this, specialty medications can cost up to $70k per person per year.

When we look at the high cost of specialty drugs used to treat advanced digestive disorders, it’s easy to see how stigma and suffering in silence can eventually lead to a very expensive problem, for both individuals and health services.

Understanding Digestive Disorders

Digestive conditions can be brought on by stress, diet, and medications with little or no warning. Episodic flares lead to ER admissions and hospitalizations with very costly treatments. For people with digestive disease, following medication regimens can be very challenging, especially if they have other medical conditions to deal with. This can often result in poor outcomes which, you guessed it, means even greater healthcare costs.

The digestive system provides fuel for the entire human body. It essentially supports all of the body’s other systems. When the digestive system is out of balance with an abnormal ratio of good to bad microbes, some really unpleasant digestive conditions can creep up, causing chronic inflammation and a host of unpleasant symptoms. Diarrhea, constipation, and pain are only part of it. Extreme fatigue, nausea, eye and mouth sores, skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety are all closely linked to digestive health.

Add to that poor diets, allergies and busy lifestyles, and gut trouble is becoming a very big and very expensive problem.

How Does Extra Virgin Olive Oil Help Digestion

We all have likely heard that extra virgin olive oil is one of the healthiest oil choices for cooking and eating. Extra virgin olive oil is high in fat, but the majority of it is heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, according to the American Heart Association. Choosing extra virgin olive oil over less healthy fats, such as butter, may benefit your heart and lower your cholesterol level. As if these benefits were not enough, extra virgin olive oil may also contribute to healthy digestive system.

As soon as we consume extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold it has a number of effects all the way along the digestive system. As far back as in ancient times it was recommended for assorted digestive disorders, and its beneficial properties are now being corroborated by epidemiological studies and a wealth of scientific data.

Once you swallow your food, your body takes over by secreting acids and other compounds that help break down the food and transports the nutrients it contains throughout your body. According to M. Carmen Ramirez-Tortosa and Parveen Yaqoob, authors of “Olive Oil and Health,” extra virgin olive oil encourages the production of peptides, which support healthy digestion and aid in nutrient absorption. Regular consumption of olive oil will keep your gut working efficiently by taking what it needs for good health and eliminating the rest in your waste.

Extra virgin olive oil & the stomach

Eating quickly, as well as eating high-fat foods, can cause gastric reflux, or heartburn. Heartburn is characterized by a burning sensation in your stomach, throat or esophagus due to a high concentration of acid from your body attempting to digest these unhealthy types of food. A study published in the 2004 issue of “Gracas y Aceites,” a journal that focuses on the roles of fat and oils in the human diet, notes in that extra virgin olive oil may reduce the secretion of gastric acid.

Extra virgin olive oil reduces the risk of acid reflex and prevents gastric juices from traveling back up from the stomach to the esophagus. Extra virgin olive oil inhibits gastric acid’s motility. Because of this, the stomach’s gastric content releases more gradually and slowly into the duodenum, making one feel more full, having a better digestion, and benefiting full nutrient absorption in the intestine.

Extra virgin olive oil & the hepatic-biliary system

One of the effects of extra virgin olive oil on the hepato-biliary system or a healthy digestive system is that it is a cholagogue, ensuring optimal bile drainage and full emptying of the gall bladder. Another effect is that it is cholecystokinetic, i.e. it stimulates the contraction of the gall bladder, which is extremely helpful in the treatment and prevention of disorders of the bile ducts. It stimulates the synthesis of bile salts in the liver and it increases the amount of cholesterol excreted by the liver.

In short, owing to its beneficial effect on the muscle tone and activity of the gall bladder, extra virgin olive oil stimulates the digestion of lipids, because they are emulsified by the bile, and it prevents the onset of gallstones. This points to a healthy digestive system.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & The Pancreas

Your pancreas is often an overlooked part of the digestive system, but it is essential for hormone production and for producing enzymes the small intestine needs to digest your food. Extra virgin olive oil is particularly beneficial to your pancreas because it only requires your pancreas to produce a small amount of digestive enzymes, which means that it is working less, reports the before mentioned study in “Gracas y Aceites.” This benefits your pancreas by keeping it strong and healthy. The June 2000 issue of the “Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health” adds that extra virgin olive oil may also offer protection from pancreatic cancer.

When extra virgin olive oil is consumed, the pancreas releases a small amount of secretion, helping the organ efficiently and effectively carry out its purpose within the digestive system. Researchers recommend extra virgin olive oil to patients who have pancreatic problems, including cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic failure and malabsorption syndromes among others.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & The Intestines

Your large and small intestines are essential for digesting your food and getting the nutrients throughout your body. Eating extra virgin olive oil in place of less healthy oils can improve the efficiency of your intestines. Olive oil also encourages your intestines to absorb more of the vitamins and minerals from the foods you eat, which makes it beneficial for individuals suffering from digestive disorders, reports the 2004 study in “Gracas y Aceites.”

New research is also showing that polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil may help balance the bacteria in our digestive tract; slowing the growth of unwanted bacteria. On this list of polyphenols are: oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol and ligstroside. Some of these polyphenols are specifically able to inhibit the growth of the Helicobacter pylori bacterium; the bacterium that leads to stomach ulcers and other unwanted digestive problems. Yet another category of polyphenols called secoiridoids, continues to be a focus in research on prevention of digestive tract cancers.

How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Boost Beneficial Gut Bacteria

Taking care of the microbes in our guts is one of the best ways to keep our digestive system working well and protect our immune system.  That means packing as many fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains and Mediterranean staples like extra virgin olive oil into our cooking as we can.

Recent studies have shown that people who ate diets rich in plant-based foods and fish – akin to the famous Mediterranean diet – had higher collections of inflammation fighting bacteria in their guts.

But perhaps you need some new inspiration to bring those bacteria busting plant-based foods to life?  Well, we at Morocco Gold are very happy to oblige with a selection of our favourite Microbiome friendly recipes.

And, don’t forget, our new harvest of extra virgin olive oil is now available to purchase – meaning you can treat your meals to the freshest flavour direct from our olive groves in the foothills of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.

The Polyphenols Present In Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil

There are more than 30 phenolic compounds that have been identified in extra virgin olive oil, but not all of them are present in every oil. The large variety of polyphenols found in extra virgin olive oil is different in chemical structures and concentrations depending on several factors including: olive variety, region in which the olive is grown, agricultural techniques, maturity of the olive fruit at harvest, and processing. Indeed, different varieties, cultivated in the same environment and processed at a fixed ripening stage, produce extra virgin olive oil with different total polyphenol profiles.

We are delighted to say that this year’s harvest has produced a low acidity level of 0.2% together with the highest level of polyphenols yet seen in our extra virgin olive oil.

Which Polyphenols Protect The Digestive System?

Polyphenol Hydroxytyrosol

Hydroxytyrosol is a powerful polyphenol which occurs naturally in the olive fruit, pulp, leaves and mill waste waters. Chemically, hydroxytyrosol is described as 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1,2-benzendiol, with the chemical formula C₈H₁₀O₃.² 

Hydroxytyrosol is a well-known minor component found in extra virgin olive oil, which is derived from hydrolysis of the polyphenol oleuropein during olive maturation and olive oil storage. The compound plays an important role in the complex and varied flavour of olives and olive oil.

It is also a vital component which largely adds to the stability and longevity of extra virgin olive oil. 

Hydroxytyrosol is hydrophilic, and absorbed in a dose-dependent manner in humans, with absorption occurring in the small intestine and colon. Uniquely, hydroxytyrosol is the only polyphenol which is able to cross the blood brain barrier, which allows it to have a significant action to scavenge free radicals in the nervous system.

Health Benefits Of Hydroxytyrosol In Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Antimicrobial Activity 

In vitro experiments have shown that hydroxytyrosol in extra virgin olive oil has antimicrobial properties against infectious respiratory and gastrointestinal pathogens.It is also known that hydroxytyrosol in extra virgin olive oil has activity against gram positive and gram-negative bacteria. In general, polyphenols have been reported to have wide antimicrobial activity, such as antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects.

Polyphenol Tyrosol : A Key Polyphenol In Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Tyrosol is a phenylethanoid, a derivative of phenethyl alcohol. It is a natural phenolic antioxidant present in a variety of natural sources. The principal source for human diet is in high quality extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold. As an antioxidant, tyrosol can protect cells against injury due to oxidation.

Along with hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol is one of the most abundant polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil, where they occur as such, or in the form of esters of elenolic acid. There is an increasing level of research into these polyphenols and their properties to determine which is the most significant contributor towards the range of health benefits associated with high quality extra virgin olive oil.

Tyrosol is a colourless solid at room temperature, melting at 91–92°C and slightly soluble in water. Hydroxytyrosol on the other hand appears as a clear colourless liquid at room temperature. It is now believed that this affects the rate of ‘uptake’ when ingested with hydoxytyrosol acting more quickly in the gut, however tyrosol accumululating intercellularly over time to provide longer term protection due to its higher concentration and good bioavailability.