February 22 2021
The olive oil, an ally for cancer prevention
The olive oil, an ally for cancer prevention.
Studies have shown that the people of the Mediterranean region have a lower incidence of cancer compared to other populations.[1] While this positive outcome undeniably depends on a range of factors, including genetics and lifestyle, the Mediterranean diet certainly plays a major part. A number of studies also support the theory that vegetable polyphenols, antioxidant compounds providing a range of health benefits, help lower the risk of developing some cancers.[2] They act by protecting our cells against genetic or environmental damage, as well as by preventing the proliferation of cancer cells.[3]
More specifically, olive oil may have a preventive effect against colorectal, breast and skin cancer.[4],[5]
The polyphenols specific to olive oil, again due to their antioxidant properties and positive action against inflammation, may protect cell membranes from carcinogenic compounds present in the environment.[6],[7] Olive oil is also resistant to oxidation (a chemical reaction that alters an oil’s quality) thanks to its high polyphenol content, which reduces the risk that potentially carcinogenic or otherwise harmful compounds could develop during storage.[8] Good to know!
[1]Gorzynik-Debicka, Monika, et al. “Potential Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Plant Polyphenols.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 28 Feb. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877547/.
[2]Gorzynik-Debicka, Monika, et al. “Potential Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Plant Polyphenols.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 28 Feb. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877547/.
[3]Gorzynik-Debicka, Monika, et al. “Potential Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Plant Polyphenols.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 28 Feb. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877547/.
[4]Gorzynik-Debicka, Monika, et al. “Potential Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Plant Polyphenols.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 28 Feb. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877547/.
[5]Mazzocchi, Alessandra, et al. “The Secrets of the Mediterranean Diet. Does [Only] Olive Oil Matter?” Nutrients, MDPI, 3 Dec. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6949890/.
[6]Gorzynik-Debicka, Monika, et al. “Potential Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Plant Polyphenols.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 28 Feb. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877547/.
[7]Mazzocchi, Alessandra, et al. “The Secrets of the Mediterranean Diet. Does [Only] Olive Oil Matter?” Nutrients, MDPI, 3 Dec. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6949890/.
[8]Gorzynik-Debicka, Monika, et al. “Potential Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Plant Polyphenols.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 28 Feb. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877547/.