Hippocrates, the founding father of Western medicine, praised olive oil healing properties, calling it “the great healer”. Meanwhile, Homer would call it “the liquid gold”. Yes, olive oil was already around in ancient Greece, and even before that. In fact, historians point to its origins somewhere between 6,000 and 8,000 years ago. Olive oil is the closest an oil can get to a fruit juice, as it’s made purely from the juice of crushed olives, filtered to remove impurities, and centrifuged to separate oil from water.
It’s interesting how people identified EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) healing properties long before modern science could explain that olive oil contains vitamins that slow down aging, for instance. Today, academic studies use the most advanced laboratories and technologies, providing a more detailed view of their benefits, including the use of olive oil for cancer in supportive treatments.
Study after study, modern science has been confirming what Mediterranean people have known for millennia: a diet based on plants, seafood, healthy fats (such as olive oil), and moderate consumption of red, fatty meats is the key to a better life. Not only can olive oil (and the Mediterranean diet as a whole) prevent numerous cancers, but it can also improve quality of life for those braving its treatments. Here’s what you need to know about these recent findings.
Olive Oil Is Studied In Cancer-Related Nutrition
In recent years, multiple studies have analysed the benefits of EVOO consumption in the diets of cancer patients. There’s solid evidence that consuming 50g or more of olive oil per day reduces the risk of gastrointestinal cancers. According to researchers, the high levels of hydroxytyrosol, polyphenols, and oleocanthal trigger a chain reaction leading to the death of cancer cells.
Some studies suggest that EVOO can be particularly effective in preventing specific types of cancer. Tests with brain cancer cells, as well as breast and colon cancer tissues, have returned very promising results. Besides, it contains antioxidants that help prevent inflammation and DNA damage, which could trigger the formation of a new tumour.
Such effects also slow down the proliferation of new or metastatic cancer cells. During lab tests, EVOO polyphenols prevented the formation of blood vessels that would feed the tumour, and triggered beneficial changes in the gut microbiota, making tumour development less likely in that area.
Compounds In Olive Oil Linked To Cellular Health
When people say that olive oil could fight cancer, they aren’t exaggerating. Several EVOO compounds are highly effective at preventing cell oxidation. Its polyphenols and monounsaturated fatty acids provide comprehensive protection for human cells, reducing oxidative stress, improving mitochondrial function, and reducing inflammation, which means less pain and a better quality of life.
Such a combination boosts overall cellular health while shielding against DNA damage. The same compounds also protect neurons against damage and ageing. High-quality EVOO is also rich in vitamin E (tocopherols), which boosts antioxidant activity. Meanwhile, monounsaturated fatty acids (also called oleic acids) improve cardiovascular health while helping fight cell oxidation.
Squalene, a component found in high concentrations in extra virgin olive oils, is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Its membrane-stabilizing properties neutralize free radicals while protecting cells against chronic diseases. Additionally, squalene provides extra protection for skin cells and accelerates wound healing.
What Current Studies Suggest
As much as EVOO can be beneficial to cancer patients’ health, it still can’t cure cancer. It doesn’t replace traditional treatments, but it’s already part of integrative therapies where the patients’ diets play a vital role. Meanwhile, researchers have been working on some of EVOO’s most effective components against cancer cells, such as HT (hydroxytyrosol) and OLE (oleuropein), to interfere with the molecular pathways of various cancers.
Studies with large populations have shown that the Mediterranean diet is associated with a significant reduction in the risk of cancer development. While epidemiological studies often yield promising results, there’s still a lack of human clinical trials to help determine the appropriate dosage for each patient.
Additionally, polyphenols have limited bioavailability in humans. It means it may not be as simple to achieve the same polyphenol concentration in the human body as researchers do in the laboratory. Despite the manifold health benefits of EVOO consumption, patients must always discuss dietary changes and supplements with their doctors.
Why The Mediterranean Diet Is Recommended For Cancer-Ill People
It’s scientifically proven that the Mediterranean diet is rich in nutrients that prevent several types of cancer. Extensive medical data analysis has confirmed significantly lower rates of tumour development in populations whose diets consist of grains, vegetables, seafood, whole foods, and, of course, olive oil. Additionally, the reduced consumption of fatty meats and sugary foods also plays a vital role in this diet.
However, it’s important to note that it’s not only great for prevention but also beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The combination of fiber and healthy fats with high levels of antioxidants helps patients manage the side effects of harsh treatments, improving overall quality of life. Surely, it doesn’t replace immunotherapy, but it may optimize its effectiveness.
The Mediterranean diet is also rich in anti-inflammatories, which can reduce inflammation-induced pain. While it boosts cardiovascular health, this incredible diet also prevents comorbidities that can reduce a patient’s quality of life and life expectancy. In fact, some studies support the hypothesis that this diet improves treatment response due to its nutrient-dense profile.
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