What are Polyphenols?
Polyphenols are natural plant-based compounds found in various foods, including tea, beer, red wine, chocolate, and notably, olive oil (tyrosols). Plants naturally produce polyphenols as a defense against microbial invasions. For humans, these compounds provide significant health benefits, including maintaining healthy gut flora.
Health benefits of Polyphenols
Polyphenols have powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-aging properties. Recent scientific studies show regular consumption of polyphenols can prevent numerous ailments caused by cellular damage from free radicals.
Polyphenols play a key role in cellular apoptosis—a process where abnormal or damaged cells (such as cancer cells) naturally self-destruct. Additionally, they:
- Protect against cardiovascular and liver diseases
- Regulate cholesterol levels
- Improve blood circulation
- Strengthen the immune system
Polyphenols like hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol specifically counteract the oxidation of fats in the bloodstream, effectively aiding in cardiovascular disease prevention.
Polyphenol-rich diet: a recipe for wellness
The Mediterranean diet is often referred to as a “Recipe for Wellness,” with olive oil as its nutritional cornerstone. This diet, rich in polyphenols, is strongly linked to reduced chronic illness risk and longer lifespan.
The polyphenolic content in olive oil helps preserve its freshness by preventing fatty acids from oxidizing, maintaining the oil’s health properties and quality.
How many Polyphenols should Olive Oil contain?
The minimum recommended polyphenol concentration in olive oil is 100mg/kg. However, this concentration decreases over time depending on storage conditions; olive oil should be kept in a cool, dark place.
High polyphenol content enhances the sensory properties of olive oil, responsible for distinctive bitter and spicy tastes. The bitter notes come from oleuropein, while the spicy sensation is due to oleocanthal, a potent anti-inflammatory compound comparable to natural ibuprofen.
Olive Oil as a nutraceutical
Superior-quality olive oil, such as organic Olea Prilis oil, contains high levels of polyphenols and is classified as a “nutraceutical”—foods with medically beneficial properties. The health properties of polyphenols in olive oil are recognized officially by the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA Regulation 432/2012).
To ensure high polyphenol content, olive oil production must prioritize high-quality raw materials, careful harvesting, immediate cold pressing, and minimal processing.
Optimal Polyphenol intake from Olive Oil
Scientific studies recommend consuming about 20 grams (two tablespoons) of high-quality olive oil daily to fully enjoy its health benefits. Consuming it raw as part of a balanced diet promotes optimal health and wellness.
Consistent intake of premium-quality olive oil rich in polyphenols, like Olea Prilis organic olive oil, significantly enhances overall health.
Remember, good health starts in your kitchen!
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