March/April 2006
HEALTH BYTES

Olive oil compound has anti-inflammatory effects

A new study suggests that a compound found in olive oil can help inhibit inflammation much like ibuprofen does. In the study, researchers examined a compound in extra-virgin olive oil that was believed to cause a mild stinging sensation in the back of the throat, and named this compound oleocanthal. Similar to ibuprofen, oleocanthal was found to have anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting enzymes that are involved in inflammation. The findings suggest that long-term consumption of oleocanthal in olive oil may help to protect against certain inflammatory diseases. The Mediterranean diet, in which olive oil is the prinicipal source of fat, has long been associated with reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, breast and lung cancer, and some dementias.