At MYST, we carefully select premium Greek extra virgin olive oil from carefully chosen olive groves, produced with respect for nature and the traditions of the Mediterranean diet. Extra virgin olive oil is renowned for its high content of monounsaturated fats and naturally occurring polyphenols, making it an essential part of a balanced diet. In this section, you will discover the health benefits of olive oil, learn about its polyphenols and antioxidants, find practical tips for proper use and storage, and explore informative articles highlighting its important role in both health and Mediterranean cuisine.
Source: Olive Oil Times
ANTI-CARCINOGENIC
Scientific studies have shown that monounsaturated fats and phenols found in olive oil help the body neutralise free radicals, thereby reducing the possibility of the occurrence of various types of cancer.
The phytonutrient oleocanthal, naturally found in olive oil, mimics the anti-inflammatory effects of ibuprofen, which may help reduce the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence. Squalene and lignans are among the other compounds in olive oil currently being studied for their potential effects on cancer. A recent study has shown that a compound found in extra virgin olive oil may be capable of killing cancer cells.
Researchers found that compounds in olive oil caused cancer cells to break down and die very rapidly—within just 30 minutes—rather than through the normal programmed cell death process, known as apoptosis, which typically takes between 16 and 24 hours.
Source: Olive Oil Times
PROTECT AGAINST INFLUENZA VIRUS
Dozens of phenolic compounds have been identified in Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), each offering its own unique health benefits. One of the key advantages of these compounds is their high bioavailability. Extensive research has highlighted their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, making extra virgin olive oil an important component of a healthy diet.
When an infection occurs, the human body relies on the immune system to fight it through a series of cellular, inflammatory, and immune responses. While medications are available to treat infections, natural foods such as Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) have shown promising potential in supporting the body's natural defenses and may contribute to infection prevention as part of a healthy diet.
Early studies have shown that the polyphenols found in olive oil possess antibacterial properties against various human pathogens, particularly tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol. Hydroxytyrosol has also been shown to interfere with the influenza virus in laboratory studies.
Source: Olive Oil Times
HEART BENEFITS
Olive oil helps reduce total blood cholesterol, LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. At the same time, it does not lower HDL ("good") cholesterol—and may even increase it. HDL cholesterol plays a protective role by helping prevent the formation of fatty deposits in the arteries and promoting the removal of low-density lipoproteins (LDL).
Olive oil supports the normal function of the heart. According to international studies, consuming two tablespoons of olive oil per day has been associated with a significantly lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
Source: Olive Oil Times
EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL CAN REDUCE OXIDATIVE STRESS
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin E, which has long been studied for its potential role in reducing cancer risk. Among vegetable oils, olive oil has one of the highest levels of monounsaturated fats, which are more resistant to oxidation in the body, while it is naturally low in polyunsaturated fats, the type that oxidizes more easily.
A recent study revealed that Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) may help protect the liver from oxidative stress. Researchers also found that consuming extra virgin olive oil and its hydrophilic fraction was associated with a significant increase in antioxidant enzyme activity and a reduction in markers of liver damage.
Source: Olive Oil Times
LOWERING BLOOD PRESSURE
According to the University of California's Davis Olive Center, consuming two tablespoons of phenol-rich extra virgin olive oil per day may help reduce blood pressure. Research suggests that regular consumption of extra virgin olive oil may contribute to lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Other studies have shown that high-phenolic olive oil was more effective in reducing both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared with sunflower oil, soybean oil, or refined olive oil with a low phenolic content.
Source: Olive Oil Times
PROTECT FROM DIABETES
It has been shown that a diet rich in olive oil, low in saturated fat, and high in carbohydrates and soluble fiber from fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains is one of the most effective dietary approaches for people with diabetes. It helps reduce low-density lipoproteins (LDL, or "bad" cholesterol), while improving blood sugar control and enhancing insulin sensitivity.
Traditionally, low-fat diets have been recommended to help prevent various diseases, including heart disease and diabetes. However, research has shown that while diets high in certain types of fat may increase the risk of some conditions, such as cancer and diabetes, the type of fat consumed is more important than the total amount of fat. We now know that diets rich in monounsaturated fats—such as those found in olive oil, nuts, and seeds—can help protect against many of these chronic diseases.
Source: Olive Oil Times
PROTECTIVE AGAINST OBESITY
A recent study conducted across eight European countries found that children who follow a Mediterranean diet are less likely to be overweight. Although olive oil is high in calories, research suggests that its consumption, as part of a balanced Mediterranean diet, may contribute to lower rates of obesity.
The findings of the study conducted by Dr. Gianluca Tognon from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, were presented for the first time at the European Congress on Obesity.
Source: Olive Oil Times
ANTI-RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
Although the exact reasons are not yet fully understood, recent studies suggest that people whose diets include high amounts of olive oil may be less likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis.
A recently published study suggests that regular olive oil consumption may reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. According to the researchers, individuals whose diets included higher amounts of olive oil had a lower risk of developing the disease. The study found that people who consumed less olive oil were 2.5 times more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than those who consumed it more frequently.
Source: Olive Oil Times
PROTECT AGAINST OSTEOPOROSIS
Here is another reason to include olive oil in your daily diet. A recent review of 37 scientific studies suggests that the phenolic compounds found in Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) may help prevent bone loss and support bone health.
A high intake of olive oil has been associated with improved bone mineralization and calcification. It may also support calcium absorption, playing an important role in maintaining bone health and potentially contributing to the prevention of osteoporosis.
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