What are the health benefits of olive oil?5 answersOlive oil offers numerous health benefits due to its bioactive compounds like phenolic compounds and vitamin E. These compounds, such as hydroxytyrosol (HTyr) and oleuropein, exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. Studies suggest that olive oil phenolic compounds play a protective role in preventing cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, obesity, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to increased longevity. Additionally, olive oil consumption is linked to the prevention of degenerative diseases and extended longevity, making it a crucial component of the Mediterranean diet. The consumption of olive oil is associated with decreased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, positive effects on inflammatory processes, and overall health benefits, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
What are the effects of phytosterols on cholesterol levels?5 answersPhytosterols have been shown to have beneficial effects on cholesterol levels. They can reduce total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in patients with hypercholesterolemia. In high-fat diet (HFD) mice, phytosterol treatment decreased the accumulation of TC, triglycerides (TG), and LDL-C, while increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. Phytosterols can promote cholesterol balance in the body by reducing cholesterol uptake in the intestines, affecting its transport, and regulating cholesterol metabolism in the liver. Ingesting 3 g of phytosterols per day can reduce LDL-C by about 10.7%. Phytosterols also activate the bile acids excretion pathway, accelerating cholesterol transformation and metabolism. Additionally, phytosterols have been associated with other health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, and immunomodulatory effects.
Does egg consumption increase cholesterol levels?5 answersEgg consumption does not have a significant impact on blood cholesterol levels in healthy individuals. Epidemiological studies have shown that consuming 1-2 eggs per day does not influence blood cholesterol levels in healthy individuals. However, it is important to consider individual responsiveness to dietary cholesterol. Some studies have found that consuming more than one egg daily for less than 12 weeks can increase total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), and the TC/HDL-C ratio. On the other hand, a multicenter cross-sectional study found that higher egg consumption was not associated with adverse lipid profiles in individuals with chronic metabolic disorders and was actually associated with a better lipid profile in individuals without these conditions. Overall, the evidence suggests that egg consumption does not significantly increase cholesterol levels in healthy individuals, but individual responsiveness and the presence of chronic metabolic disorders may influence the relationship between egg consumption and blood lipid profiles.
What are the effects of cholesterol and triglycerides on atherosclerosis?4 answersElevated levels of triglycerides (TGs) and cholesterol are associated with atherosclerosis and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). TGs are major components of TG-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) and are rapidly catabolized in circulating blood, producing remnant lipoproteins (remnants) that are rich in cholesterol. Abnormally elevated remnant cholesterol (RC) levels are associated with higher recurrent major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Patients with diabetes have increased levels of TGs and RC, which contribute to the residual risk of ASCVD. Fibrates are effective in lowering serum TGs and have a low side effect profile. There is strong evidence that lowering elevated TGs is beneficial in both primary and secondary cardiovascular prevention. High cholesterol levels are associated with altered rheological properties of blood, such as higher viscosity and a more pseudo-plastic behavior. The relationship between cholesterol, triglycerides, and the structure of blood is important in understanding atherosclerosis.
What are the health benefits of olive oil versus olives?5 answersOlive oil and olives both have health benefits. Olive oil is considered a functional food due to its bio-functional chemical composition and is associated with a decrease in the risk of cardiovascular diseases and a positive role in inflammatory processes. It is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and polyphenols, which can counteract LDL cholesterol and protect against cardiovascular diseases. Olive oil phenols are potent inhibitors of LDL oxidation and have shown to protect against oxidative damage and inflammation. Olive oil also has positive impacts on lipid peroxidation and hepatic protection. Olives, on the other hand, contain important polyphenols such as hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein, which have beneficial effects against diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disease, depression, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Both olive oil and olives have health benefits, but they contain different bioactive compounds that contribute to their respective effects.
Does drinking olive oil help with weight loss?5 answersDrinking olive oil can help with weight loss. Studies have shown that an olive oil-based Mediterranean-style diet (MSD) plan can lead to fat loss and changes in body fat distribution, resulting in better weight/fat loss and reduced abdominal adiposity. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found that a diet enriched with olive oil reduced weight, waist circumference, and body mass index (BMI). Olive oil consumption has been associated with greater energy expenditure and may be useful for weight management. The benefits of olive oil in clinical nutrition are related to its action on lipid metabolism and the cardiovascular system. Contrary to concerns, studies have not shown an association between olive oil consumption and weight gain or obesity.