Olive oil is a miracle that is considered a symbol in itself in the food world and contains many beauties regarding health and taste. Well, do you know about polyphenols, called nature’s golden molecules, which constitute a large part of the unique properties of this valuable oil? The polyphenols contained in olive oil are known as powerful antioxidants of the plant world and have a number of health benefits that embrace the body from head to toe.
As Niz Olive, in this article, we will explore in depth the health effects of the polyphenols in olive oil and examine the impressive power of these golden molecules, ranging from heart health to the fight against cancer. While olive oil and polyphenols represent a perfect combination of health and taste, in this article we will trace the science and beauty behind this combination.
What are polyphenols?
To give a general definition of polyphenols, they refer to a group of natural compounds found in plants that have a phenolic structure. Phenolic structure includes compounds containing one or more phenol groups (structure containing one or more hydrogens and a hydroxyl group on an aromatic ring).
Polyphenols are found in many plant food sources, but they are especially concentrated in some foods such as fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, and olive oil. Olive oil, especially high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, is a rich source of polyphenols.
What are the Benefits of Polyphenols for Health and the Human Body?
Antioxidant Power: Polyphenols are powerful antioxidant compounds found in nature. Olive oil, in particular, draws attention with the polyphenols found in high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Thanks to their antioxidant powers, polyphenols can reduce cellular damage, regulate inflammation, and provide positive effects on overall health. Therefore, the consumption of polyphenol-rich foods is an important factor in supporting a healthy lifestyle.
Effects on Heart Health: Polyphenols can protect cells by fighting oxidative stress and may be beneficial to the cardiovascular system in a variety of ways. The anti-inflammatory effects of polyphenols can regulate blood pressure by promoting the dilation of blood vessels and reducing the risk of heart diseases such as atherosclerosis.
At the same time, polyphenols can prevent blood clotting and regulate cholesterol levels, factors that support heart health. Polyphenols in olive oil are especially abundant in extra virgin olive oil and can be effective in supporting cardiovascular health when consumed regularly. Therefore, including polyphenol-rich foods in your diet can be an important step in protecting your heart health.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Polyphenols are natural compounds with anti-inflammatory properties and may provide various health benefits by interfering with inflammatory processes occurring in the body. These anti-inflammatory effects are associated with polyphenols found in some foods, especially olive oil. Polyphenols can reduce oxidative stress by fighting free radicals, one of the main causes of inflammation.
They can also regulate the release of inflammatory cytokines and control inflammatory processes at the cellular level. These anti-inflammatory effects mean that polyphenols may contribute to the prevention and treatment of a variety of health problems, such as arthritis, heart disease, and other inflammatory conditions. Therefore, regularly consuming polyphenol-rich foods may be an important factor in balancing inflammatory processes in the body and improving overall health.
Fighting Cancer: Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds in plants that have antioxidant properties and may have potential effects on fighting cancer. Thanks to their antioxidant properties, polyphenols can reduce cell damage and prevent cancer formation by fighting free radicals in the body. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory effects of polyphenols may reduce the role of inflammation in cancer development.
Some studies show the positive effects of polyphenols on common types of cancer, especially bowel, breast, and prostate cancer. Olive oil is known for its polyphenols, especially those found in high-quality extra virgin olive oil, and may support potential health benefits in fighting cancer.
Effects on Metabolism: Polyphenols are compounds that are naturally found in plants and have antioxidant properties. These natural ingredients can exert positive effects on a number of metabolic processes in the body. They may help regulate blood sugar by increasing insulin sensitivity, which may contribute to the metabolism processing carbohydrates and fats more effectively.
Additionally, polyphenols may have effects that increase energy expenditure, which may contribute to weight control and the acceleration of metabolism by supporting fat oxidation. Its antioxidant properties can reduce damage at the cellular level, which can positively impact overall metabolic health. Food sources rich in polyphenols, especially olive oil, can support these positive effects on metabolism.