Polyphenols may sound like a daunting term but don't worry. We will break down what they are, why polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil are good, and which olives have the best source.
What Are Polyphenols?
Think of polyphenols as little warriors in your body. They're found in plants, and they fight diseases to keep us healthy. They were discovered fairly recently when researchers saw that the Mediterranean diet, full of polyphenols in olive oil, had lower rates of heart disease and other chronic illnesses.
Why are Polyphenols Important?
Here are a few key contributing reasons why you need more polyphenols in different kinds of extra virgin olive oil - and other ingredients - in your diet:
Antioxidant Shield
This natural defence squad tackles harmful free radicals that attack your cells, proteins, and DNA. They are said to reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
When free radicals attack, inflammation occurs. Polyphenols in olive oil help reduce inflammation. They do this by increasing the activity of anti-oxidizing enzymes that are crucial to the anti-inflammation process.
Heart Health
‘A glass of wine a day keeps the doctor away,' or so they say. The expression comes from the polyphenols in the wine. Polyphenols help reduce blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, and increase blood vessel function.
Brain Health
These compounds are also beneficial to keeping our minds healthy. The parts that make our brains work are susceptible to deterioration leading to diseases such as Alzheimer's. Polyphenols in olive oil, and other food and drink, try to stop this.
Which Olives Have the Best Polyphenols?
The amount of polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil depends on a variety of factors including the extraction process, the type of olive, and where it grows. Olive oil is one of the most popular sources due to its shelf life. Luckily for you, we have the top three here!
Koroneiki olives in Greece are small but packed with a healthy punch. Known as the “queen of olives,” they are famous for their high polyphenol content. You'll find these olives in the regions of Crete and the Peloponnese, on large trees that can thrive in Greek conditions. The high amounts of antioxidants contribute to their peppery taste.
Next, we have Picual olives from Spain. They are cultivated almost everywhere and Spain and are a favorite due to their oxidation resistance. They have tons of flavour and tons of polyphenols. They grow in the Andalusian region and usually grow in high yields making them a favorite for farmers. They have a fruity flavour with hints of green tomato and a slight bitterness.
Cortina olives in Italy are famous for their flavour and their benefits. Grown in the Puglia region, these olives have an intensely fruity flavour, with hints of artichoke, and a spicy kick!
Its intense flavour makes Cortina Olives a favourite among chefs. Their high polyphenol content makes them a must in everyone else's diets.
Conclusion
Each of these varieties is a great choice for increasing polyphenols in your body. These fighters work to protect us by combating heart diseases, cancer, and other chronic illnesses.
