Olive oil for preventing Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have identified a natural component of olive oil that prevents cell damage that causes dementia in Alzheimer's sufferers.

U.S. researchers now believe it could help find a treatment against Alzheimer's disease, says a study published in the October issue of Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology Journal.

This antioxidant, oleocanthal, which gives peppery flavor to the olive oil, prevents the destruction of synapses in the hippocampus area of the brain responsible for learning and memory, the first to be affected by disease.

Researchers are unclear whether increased consumption of olive oil protects from Alzheimer's disease, but the results of the study could lead to new drugs to prevent and treat Alzheimer's disease, stress scientists.

"These findings could help identify effective preventive measures and lead to improved treatments in the fight against Alzheimer's disease," says Dr. Paul Breslin of Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia and lead author of the study.

Olive oil is an essential element of the Mediterranean diet, and some studies have shown that it reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease, according to the National Institute of Health UK.

Previous studies have shown that natural elements such as curcumin (an anti-inflammatory spice), resveratrol (found in grapes and red wine), and ginkgo biloba may prevent Alzheimer's disease.

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