In nature, Hydroxytyrosol is present in the olive tree , concentrating mainly on the leaves, where it acts as an antibiotic and immunostimulant. In the same way we can find it in extra virgin olive oil both in its free form and in the form of oleuropein (responsible for its bitter taste), but not in the rest of the oils since it is eliminated with refining.
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Its presence in extra virgin olive oil means that hydroxytyrosol is commonly ingested in countries where the Mediterranean diet predominates . Several studies have shown the relationship between the consumption of the foods that make up the Mediterranean diet and the low incidence of cardiovascular diseases, hydroxytyrosol being one of the compounds responsible for this effect. The antioxidant activity of hydroxytyrosol is one of the highest among polyphenols, being even higher than that of vitamin E.
Different scientific investigations corroborate the beneficial effects of hydroxytyrosol. The Open University of Catalonia , published in 2015: " Hydroxytyrosol, the best natural antioxidant and the most unknown." Comparative study with other antioxidants. This research is based on the assumption that: hydroxytyrosol may be the best natural antioxidant with unknown effects to date and for this purpose it presents a series of conclusions that are described below.
ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY
In different tests carried out in vitro it was found that Hydroxytyrosol offers greater protection than Oleuropein and that Vitamin E against different radicals such as the micelles of linoleic acid or in the elimination of the superoxide anion. Its antioxidant efficacy against hypochlorite damage was also demonstrated. In short, it has been shown in several in vitro studies the great antioxidant capacity of Hydroxytyrosol, above the values of vitamins C and E.
Hydroxyrirols is a substance that is naturally present in the human body, so the phenols of the olive to be naturally recognized by the body circulate freely without presenting the problems of adaptation of other types of foreign polyphenols. There are also no problems due to the accumulation of polyphenols in the organism since they are excreted hydrosoluble by the renal and digestive systems.
Several studies suggest that the peroxidation of lipoproteins is responsible for the patenogenesis of arteriosclerosis. The peroxidation modifies the LDL forming fatty deposits that produce atheromas. Studies conducted in vitro showed that rats fed a diet rich in olive oil had greater resistance to lipid peroxidation than those fed another diet.
In other studies with animals and humans it was found that polymorphonuclear leukocytes are involved in the development of coronary diseases, angina and other consequences of arteriosclerosis. It was verified by means of meters that the responsible enzyme is 5-lipoxygenase which is inhibited by the phenolic compounds of olive oil with great effectiveness.
ANTIMICROBIAL CAPACITY
It has been shown that Hydroxytyrosol is a good antimicrobial agent against pathogenic bacteria in humans, in clinically isolated strains, with a higher effectiveness than erythromycin and ampicillin. Some of these pathogens are: Haemophilus influenzae, Salmonella spp. And Vibrio parahaemolyticus.
INDUCTOR CAPACITY OF APOPTOSIS
Currently chemoprevention is one of the main treatments against cancer. Antioxidants have a promising prognosis in this field. There are epidemiological studies that ensure that olive oil exerts a preventive effect in breast and colon cancer.
- BENEFITS OF HYDROXYTIROSOL FOR HEALTH:
- PROTECTOR OF THE CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM
Several in vitro and in vivo studies conclude that Hydroxytyrosol protects LDL from oxidation by free radicals. It also reduces the production of molecules that adhere to the endothelium. The consumption of Hydroxytyrosol in significant quantities is able to regulate glutathione and provide the adipose tissue with antioxidant enzymes. The EFSA (European Food and Safety Authority) accepted in 2012 that HT protects LDL against oxidation by free radicals and prevents vascular deterioration caused by arteriosclerosis.
PROTECTOR AGAINST NEURODEGENERATIVE PROCESSES
Several studies indicate that the consumption of polyphenols reduces the risk of neurodegeneration and also of the cognitive decline associated with age. The brain in its activity has a great energetic wear since it consumes a lot of oxygen. During the oxidative process generates large amount of free radicals that damage the cells. Hydroxytyrosol is able to protect brain cells against peroxidation of lipids because it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier.
PROTECTOR AGAINST CANCER
Studies conducted on the consumption of virgin olive oil and the prevalence of diseases in the population, result in a lower incidence in breast cancer. Hydroxytyrosol and Tyrosol to a lesser extent protect against the proliferation of cancer cells and apoptosis in mammary or cancerous epithelial cells. Hydroxytyrosol prevents oxidative DNA damage.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
During inflammation, free radicals are generated and antioxidants are reduced. Hydroxytyrosol has the capacity to inhibit COX and LOX enzymes of arachidonic acid (AA), reducing the oxidative deterioration characteristic of inflammations.
MUSCLE AND ARTICULAR PROTECTOR
Hydroxytyrosol stimulates the production of chondrocytes by regenerating and repairing the articular cartilage. Hydroxytyrosol also helps during physical exercise since it increases the production of glutathione (endogenous antioxidant) and reduces the production of lactic acid and the consequent muscular atrophy.
PROTECTOR AGAINST AIDS
Hydroxytyrosol together with Oleuropein are the first group of molecules capable of multiple actions against the AIDS virus. Hydroxytyrosol inhibits the entry and integration of the virus. It acts inside and outside the cells. This finding is a good starting point for the design of new HIV inhibitors.
PROTECTOR OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Hydroxytyrosol prevents colon and breast cancer, premenstrual syndrome and cardiovascular diseases by suppressing LDL synthesis. It also has an antimicrobial effect and destroys the colonies of microorganisms that cause infections in the respiratory, intestinal and genital systems.
PREVENTION OF OSTEOPOROSIS
The administration of dose-dependent Hydroxytyrosol has positive effects on bone formation and growth. Hence, the use of Hydroxytyrosol for the treatment of osteoporosis symptoms is feasible.
PROTECTION AGAINST OTHER DISEASES:
PROTECTION OF THE RETINA.
Hydroxytyrosol is beneficial for ocular health specifically in the regeneration of the retinal pigment epithelium, macular degeneration and galucoma produced by oxidative stress.
IN THE AQUEOUS-FAT PHASE IT HAS DERMOPROTECTING EFFECTS.
Protects against UVB rays. Reduces pigmentation of the skin. Protects against edema and erythema caused by excessive sun exposure. It may even be effective to fight psoriasis.
ANTI-AGING EFFECT.
Stimulates the production of promoter proteins for cell survival.