What are polyphenols and why are they so important for health?

Polyphenols are a group of substances that we find in a large number of vegetables and that are characterized by their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power. Olive oil is rich in polyphenols , so its consumption helps prevent fats from oxidizing in the blood vessels, which prevents cardiovascular diseases thanks to its vasodilator, anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic effect. In addition, various studies have related its consumption to the good state of the intestinal flora and have revealed its possible antitumor properties.

But not all olive oils have the same polyphenol content, so you should be careful when shopping to always choose the one with the best health properties. First of all, it should be noted that during the refining process the oils lose a large part of their polyphenols, so it is best to always choose an extra virgin olive oil, which will keep all its nutrients intact. On the other hand, early harvest oils have a higher polyphenol content, which we will notice in their intense green color, unlike those from late harvests, which have a more golden hue.

Fontclara extra virgin olive oil of the Argudell variety is characterized by its high content of polyphenols, something that we will notice, among other things, in its pleasant spicy finish. This is due to the presence of oleocanthal, a substance responsible for the itching in the throat, a guarantee of the presence of polyphenols. On the other hand, the year of harvest is also important, since polyphenols oxidize quickly, which means that over time their presence is significantly reduced. Therefore, it is always convenient to look at the harvest date (the more recent, the better) to guarantee the correct supply of polyphenols and benefit from its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

It should be noted that science supports the benefits of a diet rich in polyphenols, which are also found in foods such as grapes, strawberries, artichokes, cocoa, red fruits and apples, among others. According to a collaborative study in which the University of Barcelona and the Hospital Clínico-IDIBAPS, among other organizations, have participated, the consumption of polyphenols in adolescents is associated with better cardiovascular health. Another study, in this case a research review published in the journal Nutrición Hospitalaria , associates the consumption of polyphenols with a lower cardiovascular risk and recalls that cardiovascular diseases continue to be, to this day, the main cause of death in the world.

Thus, a diet rich in these chemical substances is a good way to take care of your health while enjoying one of the great pleasures for the palate that nature offers us: the best extra virgin olive oil, the undisputed jewel of the Mediterranean diet and a real joy for the senses.