How can oleuropein support women’s health?
Last updated: August 23rd, 2024
Delve into the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, centering around olives and extra virgin olive oil. Uncover the benefitial effects of oleuropein, particularly for women in menopause.
The Mediterranean diet has gained recognition as one of the healthiest diets globally, known for its potential to prevent long-term health conditions.
Key components of this diet include olives and extra virgin olive oil. In this article, we will delve into their composition, exploring the various health benefits associated with their consumption. Moreover, we will focus on their potential advantages for women facing menopausal concerns, shedding light on the natural, hormone-free alternatives available to alleviate their symptoms.
Olives and extra virgin olive oil: Pillars of Mediterranean health
The Mediterranean diet revolves around plant-based foods, whole grains, nuts, herbs, and spices. It encourages moderate consumption of fish, seafood, and poultry, while red meat and sugar are consumed infrequently. The main source of added fat in this diet is extra virgin olive oil, which stands out for its numerous health benefits (1).
Composition of extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil is derived from freshly cold-pressed olives, the fruits of the olive tree (Olea europaea). This process ensures that the beneficial components of extra virgin olive oil, known as biophenols, are preserved.
The primary fatty acids in extra virgin olive oil are monounsaturates, particularly oleic acid, which constitutes 55-80% of the total fatty acid content. The remaining portion consists of small amounts of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Beyond the fatty acids, extra virgin olive oil contains various minor components such as antioxidants, including carotenoids, α-tocopherol, and phenol compounds like hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, and oleuropein. Oleuropein, in particular, is present in olives, olive leaves, and olive oil and is a key player for the health benefits associated with these products.
What are the health benefits of Oleuropein?
Oleuropein has been extensively studied for its potential in preventing various disorders. As an antioxidant, it effectively combats harmful compounds in the body. Studies have demonstrated its ability to protect cells from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and contributing to the prevention of inflammatory conditions (2, 3).
Furthermore, the cardiovascular benefits of oleuropein are noteworthy, as it reduces LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. This effect, in combination with its antioxidant properties, contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis.
Interestingly, while oleuropein is present in olive oil and olives, olive leaves contain even higher levels of this beneficial compound. This makes olive leaves a great source for obtaining oleuropein and reaping its healthful advantages (4).
An example of an olive leaf extract that has high levels of oleuropein is Bonolive®.
Women’s health: how can it benefit from olives?
Postmenopausal women often experience symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and mood swings. The global population of menopausal women has grown significantly, leading to increased demand for research on natural alternatives to alleviate these symptoms (5).
Oleuropein’s antioxidant properties are also relevant to women’s health. Oxidative stress is a contributing factor to the development of various diseases, and antioxidants like oleuropein help counteract this stress, promoting overall well-being (6).
Recent studies have also shown that oleuropein may have positive effects on bone health, which further enhances its impact on women’s health, especially during and after menopause.
Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by reduced bone density and an increased risk of fractures, is a significant concern for menopausal women due to hormonal changes and declining estrogen levels. The anti-inflammatory properties of oleuropein play a crucial role in reducing bone loss and inflammation, helping to maintain bone strength and integrity.
Oleuropein and women’s health: the benefits of olives and olive leaf
The Mediterranean diet, which includes olives and extra virgin olive oil, offers many health benefits, thanks to oleuropein: a compound that helps prevent diseases and promotes overall well-being, especially in women post-menopause.
For those who may have limited olives or olive oil in their regular diet, supplements containing high levels of oleuropein might be beneficial. Bonolive® is high in oleuropein content and has been extensively studied.
To read more about these studies, download our white paper below.
