The benefits of EVOO in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease

Reasons to have a spoonful of EVOO a day

In Spain, we are fortunate that EVOO is one of the fundamental pillars of our Mediterranean diet. Furthermore, its consumption has gained particular relevance in recent years for its benefits in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

We recommend consuming EVOO not only for its excellent flavour, but also for how beneficial it is for our health. This has been supported by numerous investigations and studies on extra virgin olive oil around the world. An example of this is a recent study conducted in the United States by researchers at Harvard University and published in the Jama Network journal. The researchers found that adults who regularly consumed more than 7 grams of olive oil a day, which is approximately half a tablespoon, were up to 28% less likely to die from dementia-related diseases compared to those who rarely or never consumed it. These positive effects are therefore framed within healthy eating patterns, such as those followed in our rich Mediterranean diet.

And today we want to give you the reasons that support this data:

1. Properties of EVOO: It is rich in polyphenols, antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage, one of the main factors associated with ageing and the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Among these polyphenols, the most prominent is oleocanthal, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Furthermore, extra virgin olive oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids, mainly oleic acid, which help to maintain cardiovascular health and protect the brain.
2. Reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress: Both are common factors in the development of Alzheimer’s. EVOO has been observed to reduce inflammation in the brain and decrease the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques, which are proteins that accumulate abnormally in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, interfering with communication between neurons and ultimately causing their death. Oleocanthal, mentioned above, acts similarly to anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes that promote inflammation. Furthermore, extra virgin olive oil is a potent antioxidant, meaning it fights free radicals, unstable molecules that cause cellular damage and are associated with ageing and neurodegenerative diseases. By reducing oxidative stress, EVOO protects neurons from damage and could slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
3. Prevention of beta-amyloid plaque accumulation: One of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s is the formation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. These plaques are protein aggregates that interfere with neural connections, leading to cognitive decline and memory loss. Experimental studies suggest that EVOO can help to clear these plaques or prevent their accumulation. Likewise, in various studies conducted on animal models, a diet rich in extra virgin olive oil has been shown to improve cognitive function and decrease the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques.
4. Improvement of vascular health: Yes, Alzheimer’s is also related to cardiovascular health problems. Extra virgin olive oil has been shown to improve the function of the endothelium, the tissue that lines the inside of blood vessels, which helps to maintain proper blood circulation. Good vascular health is essential for the proper functioning of the brain, as adequate blood flow ensures the supply of oxygen and nutrients to neurons.
5. Stimulation of autophagy: This is the process by which cells eliminate and recycle their damaged or unnecessary components. In the brains of people with Alzheimer’s, this process is impaired, which contributes to the accumulation of toxic proteins. The aforementioned studies also support that EVOO can stimulate autophagy, helping the brain to rid itself of these harmful proteins and maintain neuronal health.

It is clear that extra virgin olive oil is a food with multiple beneficial properties, especially with regard to brain health and the prevention of Alzheimer’s, making it a potential ally in the fight against this devastating disease.

Therefore, at Almazaras de la Subbética, we encourage you to incorporate the highest quality EVOO into your diet and maintain a healthy lifestyle. You will be implementing an effective strategy to maintain cognitive health and prevent the decline associated with Alzheimer’s.