Beneficial Effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil Rich in Phenolic Compounds on Cardiovascular Health

Abstract

The Mediterranean diet (Med-diet) includes a high consumption of cereals, fruits, legumes and vegetables, a moderate fish intake and a low consumption of red meat. Olive oil is a basic component of the Med-diet due to its numerous health benefits. In the last decade, many epidemiological studies have confirmed the protective role of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) against several chronic illnesses including cardiovascular diseases. EVOO is mainly composed of triacylglycerols, with oleic acid as the dominating esterified fatty acid, and other minor compounds. Among them, phenolic compounds, such as hydroxytyrosol and its derivatives (oleuropein and tyrosol), are the principal components responsible for the cardioprotective effects. They are endowed with wide biological activities, including strong antioxidant properties, allowing the prevention of cardiovascular risk factors, such as atherosclerosis, plasma lipid disorders, endothelial dysfunction, hypertension, obesity and type 2 diabetes. The aim of the present chapter was to elucidate the beneficial effect of EVOO, as part of the Mediterranean-style diets, on cardiovascular risk factors and to discuss the underlying mechanisms by which polyphenols exert their effects.