Episode #31: Unlocking Health Benefits of Olive Oil with Dr. Kristin Hieshetter

About the Guest(s):

 

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a respected and prominent voice in the field of functional health. With extensive experience and a reputation for delivering high-quality, evidence-based insights, Dr. Hieshetter is dedicated to helping people optimize their health through informed lifestyle choices. As the host of Functional Health Radio, she provides listeners with actionable strategies to improve their wellbeing and prevent diseases. Dr. Hieshetter is known for her ability to translate complex scientific research into practical advice for everyday life.

 

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter delves deeply into the astounding health benefits of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Starting with a stark overview of the rising chronic disease rates and falling life expectancy in the United States, Dr. Hieshetter presents compelling evidence from multiple scientific studies on how EVOO can be a game-changer for health.

 

Throughout the episode, Dr. Hieshetter emphasizes that EVOO is packed with beneficial compounds like phenolics, oleic acid, luteolin, and monounsaturated fats, which contribute to its powerful health benefits. Highlighting research from prestigious institutions such as Harvard School of Public Health and the University of Copenhagen, she discusses how regular consumption of EVOO lowers risks of dementia, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. She also outlines practical ways to integrate EVOO into daily diets to harness these benefits.

 

Key Takeaways:

·       EVOO's Health Benefits: Regular consumption of extra virgin olive oil can lower the risk of dementia, cardiovascular disease, and cancer due to its high content of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.

·       Scientific Backing: Studies from top universities show that consuming greater than 7 grams of EVOO daily reduces the risk of dementia by up to 29%.

·       Gut-Brain Axis: EVOO supports gut health, which in turn affects brain health. It helps in reducing oxidative stress and improving overall gut flora.

·       Practical Integration: Tips on incorporating EVOO into meals, including DIY salad dressings and vegetable preparations, to ensure a daily intake that aligns with research-backed recommendations.

·       Cautions and Recommendations: Choose authentic, high-quality EVOO to avoid "fake" olive oils that do not have the health benefits. Research-backed brands and suppliers are identified.

 

Notable Quotes:

1.     "Olive oil may exert anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects due to its high concentration of monounsaturated fats and other compounds with antioxidant properties."

2.     "Replacing 10 grams a day of butter, margarine, or mayo with extra virgin olive oil reduced the risk of all-cause mortality by 34%."

3.     "One third of adults die from dementia. If you live past the age of 85, one in two people will die of dementia or Alzheimer’s related diseases."

4.     "The average Mediterranean person consumes 40 grams a day of olive oil... What's the diet with all the hype? It's the Mediterranean diet specifically."

5.     "If you know somebody who has Alzheimer's... bring the olive oil to the dinner party or have them over to your house and listen to this podcast with them."

 

Resources:

·       Studies Referenced:

o   "Consumption of Olive Oil and Dietary Quality and Risk of Dementia-Related Death" - JAMA Open Network

o   "Ibuprofen-like Activity in Extra Virgin Olive Oil" - Medical Journal Photochemistry

o   "Consumption of Olive Oil and Risk of Total and All-Cause Specific Mortality Among U.S. Adults" - Journal of the American College of Cardiology

o   "Extra Virgin Olive Oil and the Gut-Brain Axis" - Nutrition Reviews

·       Olive Oil Brand Mentioned:

o   TJ's Fresh Pressed Olive Oil

• Functional Health Mastery

Closing Notes:

This episode of Functional Health Radio provides invaluable insights into how a simple dietary change – incorporating extra virgin olive oil – can significantly impact your health. For health enthusiasts, caregivers, and anyone interested in preventative health, this episode is a must-listen. Stay tuned for more health revelations in the upcoming weeks.