The health benefits of the Mediterranean diet have received a lot of positive press, and so far the benefits have been credited to fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as olive oil. It has been pointed out that the bioflavonoids in fruit and vegetables are the positive forces at work. Also, the monounsaturated fatty acids of olive oil are part of a heart healthy diet.
Researchers from the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Galveston, Texas have found yet another piece of evidence that olive oil has positive effects on heart health. They have found a natural occurring chemical in extra-virgin olive oil which they named oleocanthal. This substance is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, a so-called COX inhibitor. The pharmacological action is the same as in the anti-inflammatory ibuprofen.
Dr. Gary Beauchamp (PhD) stated, “Some of the health-related effects of the Mediterranean diet may be due to the anti-COX activity of oleocanthal from premium olive oils”.
More information about the concept of inflammation being at the root of many diseases: http://nethealthbook.com/about/overview/
Reference: The Medical Post, September13, 2005, page5
Olive Oil Combats Inflammation
Last edited October 29, 2014
