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Antioxidants

Antioxidants help prevent damage to body tissues caused by molecules known as free radicals. The body produces these free radicals as it uses oxygen & the quantity increases as we grow older. Free radicals have been linked with heart disease, cancer & aging. Although the body produces its own antioxidants, the foods we eat are another important source. Olive oil, being produced from a fruit, contains a wide variety of valuable antioxidants that are not found in other oils.

Antioxidants are important within the arteries. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) or 'bad' cholesterol is really only undesirable when it oxidises. If this occurs, foam cells form, plaque accumulates & the chances of a clot forming & blocking an artery are greatly increased. Antioxidants help prevent this oxidation occurring.

	Vegetables also supply many important antioxidants, but we need to get people to actually eat them. For this to happen, the vegetables must taste good. The cuisine around the Mediterranean make this possible by preparing vegetables with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic & herbs, & the delicious flavour is the main reason why people in Mediterranean countries are happy to eat large quantities of vegetables every day. Fruits, nuts & red wine are also sources of antioxidants in the typical Mediterranean diet. Each adds more nutrients & a great deal of enjoyment to the diet.

Olive & other monounsaturated oils

Monounsaturated oils are also being promoted as healthy, especially canola oil. Olive oil is much more than just a source of monounsaturated fat. At least part of its proven benefits may be due to its high content of a vast range of potent phytochemicals, including antioxidants. We cannot assume that all monounsaturated fats are the same.

Studies are showing that protection from breast cancer, for example, seems to be related to olive oil more than to other monounsaturated fats. This shows the importance of other factors in olive oil.

Olive oil diet or low-fat diet?

There have also been many advocates for a diet low in all fats. While there is some evidence that a low-fat diet may be beneficial for obesity and coronary heart disease, many people find a low-fat diet tasteless, probably because it is fat that carries flavour in many foods.

Also, a low fat diet may not be advisable for people with diabetes. Studies on people with diabetes show that most prefer a diet in which saturated fat is replaced with olive oil, rather than one that is low in all fats. The diet with olive oil also gives better blood glucose control for these people.

For most people, an agreeable taste determines whether or not they will stick to their recommended diet. Fortunately, taste is an important part of the Mediterranean style of eating and makes it very enjoyable and easy to stay on.

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