EVOO in the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular diseases
Summary of the lecture given by Dr. José Juan Gaforio Martínez, Professor of Immunology at the University of Jaén, organized by the Royal Academy of Veterinary Sciences of Eastern Andalusia (RACVAO) and Cajamar on November 9, 2017, at "La Casa de las Mariposas", Almería.
Introduction
The event had the collaboration of the Regional Ministry of Economy and Knowledge of the Junta de Andalucía and addressed the benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) in the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
The lecture began with a review of the economic and cultural weight of olive groves in Spain, especially in Andalusia, and Dr. Gaforio's involvement in research into the healthy properties of EVOO and its bioactive components.
Lifestyle and health
Professor Gaforio highlighted that eating habits and lifestyle directly influence life expectancy. Although the United States triples healthcare spending per person compared to Spain, it ranks 27th in longevity, while Spain is second only to Japan, thanks to its Mediterranean diet.
He warned about abandoning natural foods in favor of processed foods, rich in additives, which harm health and traditional gastronomic culture. "Eating healthy is cheaper than eating processed," he emphasized.
Obesity: a global problem
More than 30% of the population in Europe, the United States, and Oceania suffer from obesity, reaching 50% in some areas. This increase is concerning due to its health and economic consequences, as the resulting chronic diseases require costly and prolonged treatments.
How does EVOO help prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases?
There are three determining factors in the development of both pathologies: obesity, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress. According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE), in 2014, 57.6% of deaths in Spain were due to cardiovascular diseases or cancer.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has confirmed the relationship between overweight and various types of cancer: esophagus, stomach, colon, liver, pancreas, breast, ovary, kidney, and thyroid, among others.
The message is clear: changing eating habits and exercising is fundamental to preventing these diseases.
Appetite regulation and the effect of EVOO
Appetite is regulated through the hypothalamus. Saturated and trans fats inflame this area of the brain and alter the feeling of satiety, promoting obesity.
Extra virgin olive oil, rich in oleic acid, is transformed into oleylethanolamide, a compound that reduces inflammation of the hypothalamus and balances metabolism.
Dr. Gaforio pointed out that pregnant or lactating women who consume EVOO promote healthy development in their children, preventing epigenetic alterations: "Mothers who cook with EVOO raise healthy children."
Oxidative stress
All cell membranes are composed of lipids. The fats we consume determine the quality of these membranes: "Our cells' membranes are formed with the fats we eat."
Excess free radicals cause alterations in cells, proteins, and DNA, leading to aging and degenerative pathologies. Therefore, it is essential to reduce oils rich in Omega 6 and trans fats, such as sunflower oil, and prioritize EVOO, rich in natural antioxidants.
Chronic inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response of the body, but when it becomes chronic, it damages tissues and promotes diseases. Modern diets, high in saturated fats, increase this risk.
Extra virgin olive oil contains polyphenols and oleocanthal, compounds that inhibit inflammatory processes and protect arteries from oxidized cholesterol (oxidized LDL), the main cause of arterial obstruction.
Furthermore, people diagnosed with cancer should adopt a less oxidative and more alkaline diet, where EVOO plays a fundamental role.
The scientific value of EVOO
Dr. Gaforio highlighted the need to rely on reliable scientific sources and rejected health hoaxes spread on social media. He showed prestigious publications that support the protective effect of EVOO, including:
The PREDIMED and PREDIMED PLUS Studies
The PREDIMED Study showed that people following a Mediterranean diet with EVOO reduce their risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death by up to 30%.
The current PREDIMED PLUS expands this long-term research, with a 9-year follow-up and a budget of 20 million pounds, focusing on weight loss, physical activity, and the prevention of chronic diseases.
All trials have used virgin and extra virgin olive oils, authentic natural juices without additives or chemical treatments.
Conclusions
- EVOO is one of the healthiest foods in the Mediterranean diet.
- It is not a medicine and does not cure diseases, but it helps prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
- Consuming quality EVOO, such as AOVE LaSolana2, contributes to well-being, longevity, and cellular health.
Post written by Cristóbal Sánchez Arán, olive grower and manager of AOVE LaSolana2, with the aim of spreading the culture of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Comments, contributions, or corrections that enrich this content are welcome.
