We need to talk about… joint health

There are dozens of weird and wonderful ‘magic bullet’ products and crazes out there making big joint health claims, from hemp seed oil¹ to endless pills and potions. 

Now, while some of these may be beneficial, simply adding a high quality EVOO to your diet is the simplest, safest and proven way to aid joint health.

High polyphenol extra virgin olive oil (under the EU Regulation 432/2012, olive oil with 250 mg/kg of polyphenols or more is classified as one that is high polyphenolic), is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds… and a natural-born ally in the fight against joint-related conditions such as arthritis.  

Oleocanthal, just one of the many phenolic compounds found in EVOO², prevents production of pro-inflammatory COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, working similarly to ibuprofen in reducing inflammation. By inhibiting inflammatory enzymes, oleocanthal helps alleviate symptoms of conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, providing natural pain relief, without the pharmaceuticals side effects.

The phenolic compounds in EVOO support cartilage health by protecting it from oxidative stress, which is a major factor in joint degeneration. This can slow the progression of arthritis and improve overall joint function. Studies also suggest that polyphenols in EVOO also enhance calcium absorption and bone mineral density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Additionally, these compounds support the production of collagen, a key component of joint cartilage.  

Links - latest study on EVOO and joint health:
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/14/2/171#

 

1. Hemp seed oil, for example, is a seed oil high in linoleic acid. Excessive linoleic acid intake is associated with inflammation, obesity, heart disease etc. It is also high in less desirable polyunsaturated fat.

2. Oleocanthal is just one of many polyphenols found in extra virgin olive oil, with around 30 of these natural compounds present. They’re found only in plants and some are unique to EVOO. All are known to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-allergy and anti-cancer effects. Hundreds of studies over several decades have found that EVOO can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, age-related cognitive decline, type 2 diabetes and cancer.