Hydroxytyrosol Health Benefits
Hydroxytyrosol, found in large quantities in Olive Oil, is a phytochemical which belongs to the phenolic compounds group. This natural and protective polyphenol is scientifically recognized as a powerful antioxidant, having antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. There are many Hydroxytyrosol health benefits, some of which include, preventing bacterial growth and fighting free radicals.
When the human body undergoes oxygen based reactions, certain nasty and dangerous substances are released into the cells and are called as free radicals. According to scientific research, these free radicals have been found to increase the risk of cancer (a condition where body cells start growing rapidly and uncontrollably), diabetes (a condition in which the level of glucose in the blood becomes extremely high), weak immune system and accelerated ageing process. Hydroxytyrosol fights these free radicals and protects the human body against their harmful effects. This is considered to be one of the biggest health benefits.
Hydroxytyrosol benefits your health by increasing exercise endurance and reducing the risk of developing muscle atrophy. During periods of excessive exercise, the human body’s exercise endurance gets lowered, which is followed by the onset of muscle atrophy. Hydroxytyrosol improves the level of endurance and keeps muscle atrophy at bay. An increase in mitochondrial content and enhancement of skeletal muscle activity can also be added to the health benefits during intense physical activity. Check here for hydroxytyrosol side effects
According to the results of several clinical trials conducted, some of the other benefits include the prevention of atherosclerosis (a condition where the artery walls get hardened due to plaque formation, thus restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart diseases), Alzheimer’s disease (a mental disorder resulting in loss of memory, speech and thought), heart diseases, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease (a disorder resulting in the loss of speech and mobility).
The advantages of hydroxytyrosol cannot be complete without its antibacterial properties. Various strains of bacteria tend to grow inside the human body. Although, some of these strains are actually beneficial for us, a few may result in serious health disorders. Hydroxytyrosol kills or inhibits the growth of these disease causing bacteria, and hence, helps in strengthening the immune system.
Smoking causes a considerable amount of damage to body cells. Hydroxytyrosol protects the human body against this kind of damage and extends protection to the nervous system. Additionally, Hydroxytyrosol benefits also in reducing the level of LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol in the blood. This cholesterol is responsible for blocking the arteries and increasing the risk of heart diseases.
Hence, one must consume plenty of olives and olive oil to take full advantage of all the Hydroxytyrosol.