How does olive oil affect overall health?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 45-year-old male, and I have been hearing a lot about the health benefits of olive oil lately. I am curious about its role in nutrition, especially for men in their mid-forties like myself. Can you explain how incorporating olive oil into my diet might impact my overall health at this stage of life? I am particularly interested in its effects on heart health, inflammation, and weight management for a man my age. Are there specific types of olive oil that are more beneficial for 45-year-old men? Also, what is the recommended daily intake for someone like me, and are there any potential risks or side effects I should be aware of as a middle-aged man?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

A study conducted on mild cognitive impairment patients has shown that intake of extra-virgin olive oil for over 12 months is associated with increased levels of neuroprotective proteins in serum, which in turn is associated with a reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation.

Mechanistic evidence from animal studies and human trials has shown that phenolic compounds (chemical compounds found in plants that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties) in olive oil, particularly extra-virgin olive oil, may attenuate inflammation, and oxidative stress and restore blood-brain barrier (a selective semipermeable barrier that protects the brain from harmful substances circulating in the blood) function, thereby reducing brain amyloid-β and tau-related pathologies and improving cognitive function.

Anti-inflammatory effects, which may be one of the main reasons for its health benefits come from antioxidants, one of which is oleocanthal. This antioxidant has been shown to work like ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory drug.

There is some evidence that certain nutrients can help reduce brain inflammation. These include omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin (a component of turmeric), and green tea. Adding these nutrients to your diet, especially sufficient essential fatty acids may help reduce symptoms.

Olive oil is commonly used medicinally for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes (high blood sugar levels), and high blood pressure. It is also used for high cholesterol, cancer (abnormal cell growth), memory and thinking skills, migraine (a recurrent throbbing headache typically affecting one side of the head and often accompanied by nausea and disturbed vision), obesity (excessive body fat accumulation), and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these other uses.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.