Extra Virgin Olive Oil Protects the Liver

MONASTIR, TunisiaExtra virgin olive oil can protect the liver, according to a new study published in Nutrition & Metabolism. The results of the animal study showed consumption of extra virgin olive oil increased antioxidant enzyme activity that reduced oxidative stress on the liver.

Researchers at the University of Monastir and King Saud University separated male Wistar rats into a control group, an olive oil group, and six groups that were exposed to the herbicide 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid with or without either whole olive oil or one of two oil extractsthe hydrophilic fraction or the lipophilic fraction. All rats given the herbicide showed signs of significant liver damage; however, extra virgin olive oil and hydrophilic fraction intake induced a significant increase in antioxidant enzyme activity and a decrease in markers of liver damage.

The researchers concluded the protective effect of olive oil against oxidative damage induced by 2,4-D is mainly related to the antioxidant potential of its hydrophilic fraction.

Olive oil is an integral ingredient in the Mediterranean diet. There is growing evidence that it may have great health benefits including the reduction in coronary heart disease risk, the prevention of some cancers and the modification of immune and inflammatory responses. Here, we've shown that extra virgin olive oil and its extracts protect against oxidative damage of hepatic tissue," they wrote.