In summary we can say that olive oil is beneficial for:
- The circulatory system, preventing atherosclerosis and its consequences.
- Digestive system, improving the functioning of the stomach and pancreas.
- Skin, protecting and toned.
- Endocrine system, improving the functions of metabolism.
- System bone, stimulating bone growth along with the absorption of calcium and minerals.
- Children and the elderly, thanks to its contribution of vitamin E which performs an oxidizing effect on the cell membranes.
A scientific study conducted by spanish scientific Javier Menendez, a specialist in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Institute for Health Research at Northwestern in Chicago (USA), confirmed at the genetic level the benefits of olive oil in the prevention and breast cancer treatment. The conclusions of this work, which also participated Ramon Colomer, head of the Division of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, were published in the latest issue of the journal "Annals of Oncology". These experts have demonstrated in laboratory experiments on different cell lines of breast cancer that oleic acid, the main component of olive oil, greatly reduced levels of an oncogene called Her-2/neu. High levels of Her-2/neu were found in 20% -30% of breast cancer patients and are associated with highly aggressive tumors.
By components:
Oleic acid Is known for its beneficial effects on cardiovascular and liver health. Increases called good cholesterol (HDL) and lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) in blood, which exerts a beneficial effect on the vascular system and heart, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Is also known to have beneficial effects on liver health and prevent the formation of gallstones.
Helps prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as senile dementia, reduces stomach acid by facilitating the digestion and is a powerful aide in the absorption of calcium by promoting bone growth.
Oils containing oleic acid have some advantages culinary better withstand the high temperatures that occur during the frying, so they are more suitable for cooking.
Sitosterol Interferes with the absorption of LDL or bad cholesterol in the intestine and strengthens the immune system.
Phenolic compounds Protect cells from oxidation. This translates to preventing aging and associated diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. They also have influence in preventing cardiovascular disease the onset of atherosclerosis.
Carotenoids Help to the growth of bones and prevents cardiovascular diseases.
Squalene Has antioxidant and anticancer properties.
Beta Tocopherol Vitamin E is the oldest antioxidant that protects cells from external aggression such as pollution, pesticides, smoke snuff and stress leading cause of premature aging. Vitamin E plays an active role in nervous disorders and immunity by increasing the number of leukocytes and preventing infections.
Vitamin E improves blood circulation, protects the heart, lowers harmful cholesterol, lowers triglycerides and prevent clots.
Vitamin E stabilizes and regulates the production of female hormones. Its use is beneficial to the genitals, facilitate pregnancy and childbirth.
