Helps reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases
Dr. Kaustubh Mahajan, consultant neurologist, SL Raheja Hospital (Mumbai, India) - said that adding olive oil to the diet can reduce the risk of developing or dying from dementia. memory.
In addition to its heart health benefits, olive oil also contains certain compounds that may also support brain health .
One of these compounds is polyphenols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Also according to Dr. Kaustubh Mahajan, the Mediterranean diet, which includes olive oil as the main source of fat, is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline and improved cognitive function in older adults.
"Olive oil helps reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurological diseases. It is composed of two main components, monounsaturated fatty acids and bioactive phenolic compounds. Both contribute to its properties. enhance its health," said Mr. Kaustubh Mahajan.
Composition of olive oil
The Mediterranean diet mainly consists of plant-based foods (vegetables, fruits and whole grains) and healthy fats. Olive oil is classified as a healthy fat because it contains oleic acid (50 - 80%) along with polyunsaturated fats, linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid.
Additionally, olive oil contains minor compounds such as tocopherols (vitamin E), squalene, carotenoids and phenolic compounds that enhance its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Helps reduce the risk of death from dementia
Although olive oil cannot cure dementia, including olive oil in the diet may offer potential benefits for brain health, including a potential role in reducing the risk of dementia. suffer from dementia .
Dr. Kaustubh Mahajan points out some of the health benefits of consuming olive oil including:
- Olive oil is rich in antioxidant compounds such as polyphenols and vitamin E, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the brain. Otherwise, these free radicals can cause cell damage and lead to age-related cognitive damage.
- Reducing brain inflammation reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia. Polyphenols and other bioactive compounds in olive oil have anti-inflammatory effects, ensuring better results for brain health.
- Olive oil enhances blood flow in the body and improves endothelial function. As a result, the supply of oxygen and nutrients occurs smoothly and leads to healthier functional connectivity between different brain regions.
