Regular consumption of extra virgin olive oil is associated with better cardiovascular health and improved liver health due to the presence of polyphenols.
Mechanism
Synthesis from 3 studies
Compounds in extra virgin olive oil turn on a cellular defense system that makes more cleanup enzymes. These enzymes remove harmful molecules that damage fats in the blood and liver, preventing buildup of toxic byproducts and protecting both organs.
Most probable mechanism
Natural compounds in extra virgin olive oil enter the bloodstream and turn on a cellular switch that boosts the production of protective enzymes. These enzymes clean up harmful molecules that damage fats in the blood and liver, preventing buildup of toxic byproducts and protecting the heart and liver from stress.
Hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol are absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after consumption of extra virgin olive oil and enter systemic circulation.
These polyphenols activate the PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 signaling pathways in vascular and hepatic cells.
Activation of these pathways stabilizes the transcription factor Nrf2 by inhibiting its ubiquitin-mediated degradation.
Stabilized Nrf2 translocates to the nucleus and binds to antioxidant response elements in DNA, increasing transcription of genes encoding catalase, superoxide dismutase 1, and heme oxygenase-1.
Elevated levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase 1, and heme oxygenase-1 enhance the cellular capacity to neutralize reactive oxygen species and reduce lipid peroxidation.
Reduced oxidative stress preserves paraoxonase-1 activity and decreases oxidation of low-density lipoprotein, limiting vascular and hepatic damage.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (3)
Community contributions welcome
Optimal dietary patterns for healthy aging
High-Tyrosol/Hydroxytyrosol Extra Virgin Olive Oil Enhances Antioxidant Activity in Elderly Post-Myocardial Infarction Patients
Contradicting (0)
Community contributions welcome
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