There is no denying gut health is one of the hottest topics in the wellness sphere right now, and for very good reason. More and more evidence is pointing to the gut microbiome as the link to metabolic syndrome that in turn is strongly associated with many chronic cardiovascular and neurologic diseases, as well as cancers. As with most things in preventative medicine, there is no single pill that will reset your gut microbiome overnight. What studies consistently show is that following the Mediterranean Diet rich in quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil high in polyphenols, like wildbranch, exerts protective effects from the development of these aforementioned chronic diseases. The Mediterranean Diet is the gold standard for healthy nutrition, and it is associated with a reduced risk of metabolic disease. Its beneficial effect has been attributed specifically to its robust profile of micronutrients as well as prebiotics, probiotics, and other components which impact the gut microbiome. As one of the main constituents of the Mediterranean Diet, EVOO has a major beneficial role attributed to oleic acid and to polyphenols that exert antioxidant activity against several biomarkers of oxidative damage. These polyphenols are directly absorbed in the intestine or transformed to active metabolites where they exert a significant local action in addition to their interaction with the gut microbiome. They potentially modulate the oxidative status of the intestinal barrier which directly correlates to the inflammatory and immune response of the individual. There is even some evidence highlighting the benefits of EVOO as an equivalent to your over the counter anti-inflammatories for joint pain without the risk of gastric ulcers!
Growing evidence suggests inflammation and oxidative stress are related, creating a vicious cycle that can trigger and promote metabolic disease. Low grade inflammation is associated with the development of obesity, and we well know adipose tissue releases many pro-inflammatory cytokines. Olive oil is a healthy fat that promotes fullness and assists in the absorption of other nutrients in the gut. If we properly support our gut, it works to our benefit, reducing our cravings for those foods we know do not move us forward in our efforts for improved digestive health. The scientific community is strongly aware of the interconnection between our gut health, immunity, and overall systemic inflammation. A study out of The University of Florence in Italy in 2019 showed case study participants following the Mediterranean Diet rich in high quality EVOO had an increase in LAB (lactic acid bacteria) in the gut microbiome that offers a protective role in the prevention of inflammation. This directly correlates to improved digestion, more regular bowel habits, and overall less bloating. Given that the average person suffers from at least one of these ailments, the simple habit of consuming high phenolic EVOO is likely to be beneficial for everyone reading this post! It is becoming more and more evident that what we do consistently with our intake of whole food based nutrition has a major impact on more than just our weight. We may use nutrient rich foods like wildbranch as part of our daily routine in the preventative efforts of not just maintaining but improving our quality and quantity of life.
-Dr. Courtney O'Bryan, DO
wilbranch health advisor