Olive oil, an important ingredient in the diet of Mediterranean people, still has some hidden benefits that you probably haven't heard about!
A 2011 Survey conducted in Germany
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Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
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Keep the word "hydroxytyrosol" in mind. It's one of the most important compounds found in olive oil and, according to a projection of a study conducted by researchers at the University of Frankfurt, Germany, hydroxytyrosol is highly likely be used in the manufacturing of drugs for diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's in the future.
The researchers have just revealed that hydroxytyrosol prevents the degeneration of neurons, thus slowing the aging process. "It is an antioxidant and prevents free radicals from attacking the nerve cells, a process involved in the onset of neurodegenerative illnesses, "explains the pharmacist Jane Mara Block, from the Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil, in an interview with the Brazilian magazine SAÚDE.
In addition to this new function that benefits neurons; olive oil already has a reputation of being a functional food since its consumption helps to reduce LDL levels, popularly known as "bad cholesterol". By substituting margarine or butter with olive oil, you can reduce up to 40% the risk of having heart disease.
Important note: To enjoy the benefits of this oil extracted from olives, it is enough to consume two tablespoons per day!
The interesting article from the Brazilian website sheds the light on new researches and developments pertaining to olive oil. I will also add to this interesting article that olive oil when heated will lose all of its benefits. So please don't heat up to fry food and use 2 tablespoons per day instead in salads, tabouleh, labne and humus!
Samia Khoury Dietitian
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