Olive oil is
the natural oil extracted from olives, the fruit of the olive tree. About 14% of
the oil is saturated fat, whereas 11% is polyunsaturated, such as omega-6
and omega-3 fatty acids. But the
predominant fatty acid in olive oil is a monounsaturated fat called oleic acid,
making up 73% of the total oil content. Studies
suggest that oleic acid reduces inflammation and may even have beneficial
effects on genes linked to cancer.Monounsaturated
fats are also quite resistant to high heat, making extra virgin olive oil
a healthy choice for cooking.
Chronic
inflammation is thought to be a leading driver of diseases, such as cancer,
heart disease, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's, arthritis and
even obesity. Extra-virgin
olive oil can reduce inflammation, which may be one of the main reasons for
its health benefits. The main
anti-inflammatory effects are mediated by the antioxidants. Key among them is
oleocanthal, which has been shown to work similarly to ibuprofen, an
anti-inflammatory drug. Some
scientists estimate that the oleocanthal in 3.4 tablespoons (50 ml) of extra
virgin olive oil has a similar effect as 10% of the adult dosage of ibuprofen.
Research also
suggests that oleic acid, the main fatty acid in olive oil, can reduce levels
of important inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP).One study
also showed that olive oil antioxidants can inhibit some genes and proteins
that drive inflammation.