New research suggests that a compound found in extra virgin olive oil may help shield the brain from Alzheimer's disease. Known as oleocanthal, the compound appears to alter the structure of certain proteins (called ADDLs) thought to contribute to the brain-harming effects of Alzheimer's.
ADDLs are toxic substances shown to interfere with nerve cells and, in turn, trigger memory loss and disruption of normal brain function. In lab tests, scientists discovered that oleocanthal changes ADDL structure in a way that may keep them from binding to neural synapses and wreaking havoc on brain health.
It's too soon to tell whether consumption of olive oil could help prevent Alzheimer's disease. In previous studies, researchers have shown that natural compounds such as curcumin (an anti-inflammatory agent found in the curry spice turmeric), resveratrol (a compound found in grapes and red wine), and the herb ginkgo biloba may also help fend off Alzheimer's disease.
