Benefits for Fighting Cancer
Organic extra virgin olive oil has gained recognition for its numerous health benefits, particularly due to its rich content of polyphenols. Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative damage and inflammation.
A field of growing scientific interest is the potential of polyphenols in olive oil to aid in the prevention and fight against cancer.
What Are Polyphenols?
Polyphenols are natural compounds found in various plants and foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and, of course, olive oil. In organic extra virgin olive oil, polyphenols are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce cellular damage and inflammation—factors linked to the development of various forms of cancer.
Mechanism of Action of Polyphenols in Cancer Prevention
The polyphenols found in organic olive oil, such as hydroxytyrosol, oleocanthal, and oleuropein, have been studied for their anticancer properties. These compounds act in multiple ways to prevent and suppress cancer.
- Antioxidant Action: Polyphenols reduce the production of free radicals, unstable molecules that cause oxidative damage to cells. This damage can lead to carcinogenic mutations. Polyphenols help protect cells, thus preventing degeneration and carcinogenesis.
- Anti-inflammatory Action: Chronic inflammation is associated with cancer development, and the polyphenols in olive oil have been shown to reduce inflammatory processes in the body. Oleocanthal, in particular, has been found to have similar effects to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), reducing inflammation linked to cancer development.
- Effects on Apoptosis: Apoptosis is the process of programmed cell death, which helps eliminate cancerous cells. The polyphenols in olive oil have been found to enhance apoptosis, helping to suppress the growth of cancer cells.
- Inhibition of Carcinogenesis: Studies have shown that the polyphenols in olive oil can inhibit tumor growth and the spread of cancer cells. Oleuropein, for example, has been found to inhibit the growth of cells in various types of cancer, such as breast and prostate cancer.
Scientific Studies and Evidence
Several scientific studies support the beneficial properties of olive oil polyphenols in cancer prevention and treatment:
- In breast cancer research, oleocanthal and other polyphenols have been found to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells and induce apoptosis.
- In the case of colon cancer, polyphenols seem to reduce inflammation and slow down the growth of cells predisposed to carcinogenesis.
- Regarding skin cancer, the antioxidants in olive oil help protect against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, a known risk factor for skin cancer.
Conclusion
The polyphenols in organic extra virgin olive oil offer more than just nutritional benefits; they have significant anticancer properties, as supported by an increasing body of scientific evidence. Incorporating this “liquid gold” into your daily diet may contribute to cancer prevention and support the body’s overall health.
As part of a balanced diet, organic extra virgin olive oil is a valuable ally in combating serious diseases like cancer, while also promoting general well-being.
* Plativolia Organic Early October harvest Vasilaki Olive Grove is an award – winning Cretan olive oil high in polyphenols (>250mg/kg) with Health Claim Rating (Health Claim)EU432/2012, low acidity < 3 and results of organoleptic characteristics that are in absolute balance between them, making an olive oil harmoniously delicious and healthy, giving the food taste and value.
