The multifunctional therapeutic potentiality of extra virgin olive oil administration through the intervention in pathophysiological mechanisms: Focus on Alzheimer's disease

Proper dietary habits pave the way for a good and healthy life in order to maintain and prolong the quality of life. It is well known that quality of life in the elderly can be achieved by non-pharmacological approaches such as performing physical activity, cognitive training, or adhering to a Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet). The MedDiet is suggested as the prevalent dietary regimen and is strongly correlated with prevention of degenerative diseases and longevity. The most distinguished and beneficial ingredient of MedDiet is extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Indeed, numerous epidemiological studies have proved that the consumption of olive oil was associated with better overall health. The foremost component of EVOO is polyphenolic compounds which are under investigation for its biological and pharma-nutritional properties. In this review we recorded several representative in vitro and in vivo studies performed in culture cell lines, in animal or clinical trials, indicating that the regular intake of EVOO is associated with enhanced neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-cancer and anti-microbial properties. Furthermore, it is emerged the demand of more randomized controlled or longitudinal observational studies to be performed to confirm the efficacy of the beneficial health effect of EVOO.