Toxic seed and vegetable oils contain high levels of toxic compounds called aldehydes when heated. These aldehydes have been shown to cause oxidative stress in the body which can damage cells, including brain cells. This damage may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.A study showed that elderly participants who replaced various vegetable oils in their diet, such as safflower, canola, or low-quality olive oil, with high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) experienced improved cognitive function after one year, proving that polyphenols are a large contributor to neuropathology. Not only do we see improved brain function in older demographics, but can improve blood-brain barrier integrity. A pilot study explored the effects of high-phenolic EVOO versus refined olive oil (ROO) on individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The study demonstrated that EVOO improved blood-brain barrier integrity, reduced brain amyloid-beta levels, decreased tau hyperphosphorylation, and lowered neuroinflammation, which collectively enhanced cognitive function and brain activity. On the more controversial side of mental and physical well-being, a study on adolescent rats revealed that EVOO reduced brain inflammation, improved blood fats, and enhanced learning and anxiety-related behaviors. ROO also helped reduce anxiety by lowering triglycerides and brain inflammation .
Definitions:
Oxidative Stress – Oxidative stress refers to a state in which there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals, and the body’s ability to detoxify these reactive intermediates or to repair the resulting damage. This imbalance can lead to cellular and tissue damage and is implicated in various diseases and aging processes.
Blood Brain Barrier – The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a highly selective and semi permeable boundary that separates the circulating blood from the brain and central nervous system (CNS) extracellular fluid. It serves to protect the brain from harmful substances, maintain a stable environment for neuronal function, and regulate the passage of molecules and ions between the blood and the brain.
Hypophosphorylation – Hyperphosphorylation refers to the excessive addition of phosphate groups to proteins by enzymes called kinases. Phosphorylation is a normal cellular process that regulates protein function and signaling pathways, but when it occurs excessively, it can disrupt normal protein function and lead to various diseases.
