Health Benefits

Shows how including extra virgin olive oil rich in polyphenols provides health benefits for the cardiovascular system

^{Updated May 13th 2024}

Summary

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Help Prevent Cardiovascular Diseases
• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the number 1 cause of death globally: more people die annually from CVDs than from any other cause
• Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for many types of cardiovascular disease, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties
• Extra virgin olive oil has been listed as one of seven diet tips to help prevent deep vein thrombosis
• Studies have shown that those who consume a diet rich in polyphenols such as those found in extra virgin olive oil are at a lower risk for developing deep vein thrombosis.

Contents

1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Deep Vein Thrombosis
2. Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Cardiovascular Diseases?
3. What Are Cardiovascular Diseases?
4. How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Helps To Protect Against CVD
5. Polyphenols – Extra Virgin Olive Oils Powerful Antioxidant
6. Extra Virgin Olive Oil And The Cardiovascular System

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis is a condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in the deep veins of the body, typically the legs. These clots can cause pain, swelling, and, if dislodged, can travel to the lungs, creating a potentially life-threatening situation known as a pulmonary embolism. Given the severity of DVT, finding effective prevention strategies is paramount.

Extra virgin olive oil stands out in the culinary world for its rich flavour and health benefits. It’s the highest quality olive oil, obtained through cold pressing without the use of chemicals or excessive heat, ensuring it retains its beneficial antioxidants and monounsaturated fats. Among these are oleic acid and phenolic compounds, which have been identified as powerful agents in promoting cardiovascular health.

Extra virgin olive oil has been listed as one of seven diet tips to help prevent deep vein thrombosis. According to a new report in Everydayhealth.com, could reduce the risk of blood clots forming inside the body. Citing a study from the National Institutes of Health–funded study presented March 7, 2019, at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health Scientific Sessions, it says:

Consuming olive oil at least once a week reduced platelet activity in nonsmoking obese adults (those with a body mass index, or BMI over 30), a sign that this oil may lower the risk of a blood clot.

Similarly, an earlier study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that antioxidants called polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil helped prevent blood clots. In the study, people who consumed virgin olive oil with a high phenol content had lower levels of a substance that promotes blood clots. And the good news is that Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil has some of the highest levels of polyphenols around.

Extra virgin olive oil is a natural product made from the olives that grow on olive trees. The oil is extracted from the olives using a process that does not involve any chemicals or artificial additives. extra virgin olive oil is considered to be the highest quality olive oil available and is rich in nutrients, including polyphenols.

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition that can occur when blood clots form in the veins, usually in the legs. If these clots break loose and travel to the lungs, they can cause a pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal. While there are many factors that can contribute to the development of deep vein thrombosis, studies have shown that those who consume a diet rich in polyphenols are at a lower risk for developing this condition.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Cardiovascular Diseases?

What are cardiovascular diseases?

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the number 1 cause of death globally: more people die annually from CVDs than from any other cause.

An estimated 17.9 million people died from CVDs in 2016, representing 31% of all global deaths. Of these deaths, 85% are due to heart attack and stroke.

Most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing behavioural risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diet and obesity, physical inactivity and harmful use of alcohol using population-wide strategies.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) – World Health Organization

CVDs are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels. They include:

• Coronary heart disease – disease of the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle;
• Cerebrovascular disease – disease of the blood vessels supplying the brain;
• Peripheral arterial disease – disease of blood vessels supplying the arms and legs;
• Rheumatic heart disease – damage to the heart muscle and heart valves from rheumatic fever, caused by streptococcal bacteria;
• Congenital heart disease – malformations of heart structure existing at birth;
• Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism – blood clots in the leg veins, which can dislodge and move to the heart and lungs.

At the age of 24, your risk for CVD is just 20%. By age 45, your chances more than double to 50%. Over the age of 80, 90% of individuals have some form of CVD.

In 2016, the cost of CVD in the USA alone was around $555Bn. This is expected to rise to $1.1Tr by 2035.

How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Helps To Protect Against CVD

The increased focus on healthy food and healthy diet has seen more food lovers turn towards diets like the Mediterranean diet and the Keto diet. Whether this is for specific health reasons, a diet to lower cholesterol, a diet for high blood pressure, a diet for weight loss or for overall wellness one of the key constituents that remains a constant is extra virgin olive oil, the original superfood.

What makes extra virgin olive oil so special is that it has stood the test of time as a superfood from the time of the ancients. Olive oil has long been considered sacred. The olive branch was often a symbol of abundance, glory, and peace. Over the years, the olive has also been used to symbolize wisdom, fertility, power, and purity.

In ancient Rome, olive oil was used for nearly everything in relation to their health. Roman medicine takes heavily from Greek doctors, who influenced European medicine for centuries, and Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine writes about over 60 different conditions or ailments that can be treated with olive oil. 

Olive oil is now probably the most widely researched superfood on the planet and its many health benefits are evidence based and well understood. Thanks to the recent spotlight on the Mediterranean Diet, extensive research has been done on the phytonutrient composition of olive oil. What has been discovered is an extensive list of phytonutrients; one of the most praised is its polyphenols. The amount of polyphenols found in Extra Virgin Olive Oil is truly amazing!

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Chronic inflammation is a known precursor to various cardiovascular diseases, including the formation of blood clots. EVOO’s rich content of antioxidants, such as oleocanthal, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen. Regular consumption of EVOO can help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially lowering the risk of blood clot formation.

Improved Vascular Health

EVOO contributes to better vascular health by improving the lining of the blood vessels, thereby enhancing blood flow and reducing the chances of clot formation. The monounsaturated fats found in EVOO can help decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while raising HDL (good) cholesterol, further protecting against the buildup of plaque and blood clots in the arteries.

Anticoagulant Effects

Recent studies suggest that the phenolic compounds in EVOO may have anticoagulant properties, which help prevent the blood from clotting too easily. This effect can be particularly beneficial for those at risk of DVT, offering a natural means of keeping the blood flowing smoothly and reducing the likelihood of clot formation.

Polyphenols – Extra Virgin Olive Oils Powerful Antioxidant

Polyphenols are a potent antioxidant – one that can decommission a nasty molecule in your body called free radicals. Free radicals can ricochet around inside your body and harm good cells. Antioxidants, such as the polyphenols found in Extra Virgin Olive Oil, work to neutralize free radicals; protecting the body from their harmful antics. These antioxidants circulate in the body, hooking up with free radicals, unstable compounds thought to play a role in more than 60 different health conditions including cancer and atherosclerosis, as well as aging.”

Most informed websites will point to the health benefits of regularly taking premium quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil like Morocco Gold. We have often discussed these health benefits with our customers at our tasting events. Many of the people we have met wish to know more, so here we are going to provide a series of articles that will provide the science behind what Extra Virgin Olive Oil actually does and why it is good for you. This first article will look at the cardiovascular system.

Structures of the Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system is responsible for transporting nutrients and removing gaseous waste from the body. This system is comprised of the heart and the circulatory system. Structures of the cardiovascular system include the heart, blood vessels, and blood. The lymphatic system is also closely associated with the cardiovascular system.

Heart

The heart is the organ that supplies blood and oxygen to all parts of the body. This amazing muscle produces electrical impulses through a process called cardiac conduction. These impulses cause the heart to contract and then relax, producing what is known as a heartbeat. The beating of the heart drives the cardiac cycle which pumps blood to cells and tissues of the body.

Blood Vessels

Blood vessels are intricate networks of hollow tubes that transport blood throughout the entire body. Blood travels from the heart via arteries to smaller arterioles, then to capillaries or sinusoids, to venules, to veins and back to the heart. Through the process of microcirculation, substances such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, and wastes are exchanged between the blood and the fluid that surrounds cells.

Blood

Blood delivers nutrients to cells and removes wastes that are produced during cellular processes, such as cellular respiration. Blood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells contain enormous amounts of a protein called haemoglobin. This iron containing molecule binds oxygen as oxygen molecules enter blood vessels in the lungs and transport them to various parts of the body.

After depositing oxygen to tissue and cells, red blood cells pick up carbon dioxide (CO₂) for transportation to the lungs where CO₂ is expelled from the body.

Circulatory System

The circulatory system supplies the body’s tissues with oxygen rich blood and important nutrients. In addition to removing gaseous waste (like CO2), the circulatory system also transports blood to organs (such as the liver and kidneys) to remove harmful substances. This system aids in cell to cell communication and homeostasis by transporting hormones and signal messages between the different cells and organ systems of the body. The circulatory system transports blood along pulmonary and systemic circuits. The pulmonary circuit involves the path of circulation between the heart and the lungs. The systemic circuit involves the path of circulation between the heart and the rest of the body. The aorta distributes oxygen rich blood to the various regions of the body.

Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system is a component of the immune system and works closely with the cardiovascular system. The lymphatic system is a vascular network of tubules and ducts that collect, filter, and return lymph to blood circulation. Lymph is a clear fluid that comes from blood plasma, which exits blood vessels at capillary beds. This fluid becomes the interstitial fluid that bathes tissues and helps to deliver nutrients and oxygen to cells. In addition to returning lymph to circulation, lymphatic structures also filter blood of microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses. Lymphatic structures also remove cellular debris, cancerous cells, and waste from the blood. Once filtered, the blood is returned to the circulatory system.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil And The Cardiovascular System

Lowering your risk of cardiovascular problems is an area upon which several recent studies on Extra Virgin Olive Oil have focused. Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for many types of cardiovascular disease, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties.

One place we don’t want excessive ongoing inflammation is within our blood vessels. Our blood supply is just too important for maintaining the health of all our body systems, and it cannot effective support our body systems when compromised with ongoing inflammation. Given this relationship, it’s not surprising to see cardiovascular benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil rising to the top of the health benefits provided by this remarkable oil.

From a variety of different research perspectives we know that daily intake of Extra Virgin Olive Oil in amounts as low as one tablespoon per day reduces inflammatory processes within our blood vessels. By reducing these processes, Extra Virgin Olive Oil also reduces our risk of inflammation-related cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis.

Yet anti-inflammatory benefits are not the only cardiovascular benefits provided by Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Two other broad types of heart-related benefits are well documented for this oil. The first type is lessened risk of forming unwanted blood clots. While blood clotting is a natural and healthy process required for the healing of wounds and prevention of excessive bleeding, clotting in the arteries can ultimately result in a heart attack or stroke.

One risk factor for unwanted clotting in our arteries is excessive clumping together of our platelet blood cells. This clumping process is also called “aggregation.” Regular incorporation of Extra Virgin Olive Oil into a meal plan has been shown to lessen the risk of this excessive aggregation, and the reason that researchers refer to Extra Virgin Olive Oil as an “anti-aggregatory” oil.

The other broad area of cardiovascular benefits involves improved levels of circulating fats in our bloodstream, as well as protection of those fats from oxygen-related damage. Decreased levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol following consumption of Extra Virgin Olive Oil are findings are the vast majority of studies that have analysed this relationship.

Yet equally important, the cholesterol molecules that remain in our blood also appear to be better protected from oxygen-related damage (oxidation). Since fats and cholesterol belong to a broader technical category called “lipids,” damage to the fats and cholesterol in our blood stream is typically referred to as “lipid peroxidation.” And it is precisely this lipid peroxidation process that gets reduced through incorporation of Extra Virgin Olive Oil into a meal plan.

Cardiovascular Disease

Atherosclerosis is the build-up of fatty plaques on the walls of arteries. Fatty plaque known as atheroma (yellow) has built-up on the inner wall and is blocking about 60% of the artery width. Atherosclerosis leads to irregular blood flow and clot formation, which can block the coronary artery resulting in heart attack.

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for people world-wide. Cardiovascular disease involves disorders of the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease (stroke), elevated blood pressure (hypertension), and heart failure.

• Hypertension – persistently elevated blood pressure (high blood pressure) in the arteries. It is associated with the development of disorders such as atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, and can cause kidney damage.
• Atherosclerosis – artery walls become hardened due to build-up of plaque (fatty deposits). It causes decreased blood supply to tissues and may lead to blood clots, stroke, aneurysm, or heart disease.
• Aneurysm – a bulging in a weakened area of an artery that could rupture and cause internal bleeding.
• Coronary artery disease (heart disease) – narrowing or blockage in the coronary arteries, which supply blood directly to the heart muscle. Complete blockage of blood flow will cause a heart attack.
• Stroke – death of brain cells (neurons) due to lack of blood supply.
• Heart failure – the heart is not able to supply enough blood to body tissues. It is caused by conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and cardiomyopathy (chronic disease of the heart muscle).

It is crucial that the organs and tissues of the body receive proper blood supply. Lack of oxygen means death, therefore having a healthy cardiovascular system is vital for life. In most cases, cardiovascular disease can be prevented or greatly diminished through behavioural modifications. Individuals wishing to improve cardiovascular health should consume a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and abstain from smoking.

Imagine your body as a highly complex, high-performance engine. High quality extra virgin olive oil like Morocco Gold is natures highest performance engine oil, to keep your body well- tuned and running smoothly over a lifetime.

The health benefits of extra virgin olive oil have been known for centuries. As discussed, studies have shown that the cardiovasular system also benefits from regular consumption of EVOO. In addition to reducing the risk of heart disease, consuming EVOO may also protect against other chronic diseases such as cancer. If you are looking for a healthy cooking oil that has multiple health benefits, extra virgin olive oil is a good choice.

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