The Mediterranean diet, known for promoting heart health, owes much of its benefits to olive oil, a staple rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and antioxidant phenolic compounds (PC). Virgin olive oil (VOO), in particular, retains more of these beneficial compounds compared to refined olive oil (ROO).
A recent study highlights the superior anti-inflammatory effects of VOO in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The trial found that VOO significantly reduced the inflammatory marker IL-6, associated with heart disease progression, while ROO did not show the same benefit. Additionally, VOO’s high phenolic content further helped combat oxidative stress, making it a powerful dietary choice for heart health.
This research supports incorporating virgin olive oil into a heart-healthy diet for its anti-inflammatory and protective properties.