Why Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil Linked to Lower Dementia Risk and Better Brain Health?

Why Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil Linked to Lower Dementia Risk and Better Brain Health?

Dementia has been a part of aging since ancient times, but the underlying mechanisms causing it are only now beginning to be understood.

Alzheimer’s disease, named after German psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer, is estimated to be responsible for 60% to 80% of dementia cases worldwide and is, unfortunately, a fatal condition.

Characterized by cognitive decline and memory loss, this disease affects 10% of individuals over the age of 65 and 40% of those over 80.

While deaths from diseases such as stroke and heart disease have decreased since 2001, age-standardized mortality rates from dementia have risen.

Currently, there are more than 55 million Alzheimer’s cases worldwide, and due to population growth and increased life expectancy, this number is expected to triple by 2050.

Although many experimental treatments for the disease are being developed, much of the research focuses on prevention.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Dementia Prevention

Numerous studies suggest that consuming extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) improves cognitive function and reduces the risk of dementia.

A recent cohort study that followed 92,383 U.S. adults over 28 years found that consuming more than seven grams of olive oil daily reduced the risk of dementia-related death by 28% compared to those who rarely or never consumed it.

Notably, these results were independent of overall diet quality, distinguishing this study from many previous ones.

Polyphenols Protect Against Dementia by Preventing Plaque Buildup and Reducing Inflammation

Polyphenols are a group of natural compounds found in plants, particularly in olives, that have powerful antioxidant properties.

These compounds offer various health benefits, including protection against cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative disorders.

EVOO is well known for its rich polyphenol content, which not only contributes to its health benefits but also enhances its distinct aroma and flavor profile.

It contains more than 25 different polyphenols, including:

  • Oleocanthal
  • Oleacein
  • Oleuropein
  • Hydroxytyrosol

Among these, oleocanthal and oleuropein are most strongly linked to the prevention and mitigation of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Current research suggests that these compounds protect brain health through multiple mechanisms, which will be further explored.

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