Harvard indicates a spice that can help prevent Alzheimer’s

Among the various ingredients that make up the Mediterranean diet, one seasoning stands out for its flavor and numerous health benefits.

A study published in Journal of the American Medical Association (Jama) Network Open highlights that regular consumption of this “liquid gold” is associated with a lower risk of dementia-related mortality.

The researchers are from the Chan School of Public Health, at Harvard University (USA).

What reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s? See a beneficial seasoning:

According to the study, the extra virgin olive oilcommonly used as a seasoning in salads, for being a powerful ally in prevention of degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.

The study analyzed the health of 92,000 adults over 28 years, noting that those who consumed more than 7 grams of olive oil daily had a 28% reduction in the risk of death from diseases such as Alzheimer’scompared to those who rarely used olive oil in their diets.

What are the benefits of olive oil for the brain?

This beneficial effect, according to research, arises from the olive oil’s ability to suppress neuroinflammationwhich can help preserve brain health.

“Some antioxidant compounds in olive oil can cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially having a direct effect on the brain. It is also possible that olive oil has an indirect effect on brain health, benefiting cardiovascular health,” said Anne-Julie Tessier, PhD at the Chan School of Public Health.

Tessier cautioned that the research is observational, so additional studies could confirm the effects and determine the ideal amount of olive oil for consumption.

Still, she did not fail to emphasize that the use of olive oil instead of margarine or mayonnaise can help maintain a healthy diet.

What other benefits does olive oil offer?

In addition to its protective action against dementia, olive oil is widely known for its benefits for the heart.

Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, it helps reduce LDL cholesterol (considered bad) and increase HDL (good cholesterol)contributing to the normalization of blood pressure.

Antioxidants such as polyphenols present in olive oil also fight free radicals, protecting the body from chronic diseases such as cancer and type 2 diabetes.

How to incorporate olive oil into your diet?

The use of olive oil in cooking is infinitely versatile. As it is an excellent substitute for less healthy fats, it can be used in salads, grilling vegetables, sautéing or even roasting foods.

However, it is crucial to choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil to ensure all the benefits mentioned.

The way it is stored also influences the preservation of its properties: keeping olive oil in a cool, dark place is essential to maintain its quality and health benefits.

Despite all these benefits, the price of olive oil has seen a significant increase. Reasons for this include economic fluctuations, adverse weather conditions in key producing regions and increased global demand.