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VOLOS (Virgin Olive Oil Study)

Randomized, crossover trial, performed by University of Milan – Pharmacological Science Department and  had the objective to evaluate the vasoprotective potential of extra virgin olive oil in mild dyslipidemic patients (Total Cholesterol 220-280 mg/dL; LDL-C 150-170 mg/dL; Triglycerides 130-180 mg/dL).

The antioxidant content, assumed by total hydroxytyrosol (as free and esterified) was 166 mg/L  for the extra virgin and  2 mg/L for the refined one (pratically without the antioxidant phenolic  fraction) unless this study oil were similar in fatty acid composition. They were administered at 40 mL (35 g ca.) per day per subject; the study lasting time was of seven weeks for each olive oil treatment.

The plasma antioxidant capacity, serum thromboxane B2 (TXB2)  and urinary isoprostane excrection were evaluated as surrogate markers of cardioprotective potential and vascular function.

The results showed as there were no effects on lipid/lipoprotein profile of study subjects. On the contrary, extra virgin olive oil consumption was associated with favorable effects on circulating markers but neither treatment had any significant effect on isoprostane excrection, as declared by the authors.

The study conclusion were cited as follows: “EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) consumption by mildly dislypidemic patients is associated with favorable changes in circulating markers of cardiovascular condition. Based on current knoledge, these effects may be associated with cardioprotection”.
Bibliography reference:  F.Visioli et al.; Eur. J. Nutr. (2005) 44: 121-127