University of Ulster, UU, researchers
discovered compounds in virgin olive oil that may offer
protection in the prevention of colon cancer. "The beneficial nature of the Mediterranean diet rich in olive
oil is already well documented. Because the colon is one of the major cancer sites thought to be protected by olive
oil, the UU research team studied the potential anti-cancer effects of virgin olive chemical compounds. Olive oil
phenols protected cells from DNA damage," said Dr Chris IR Gill, UU lead researcher.Extra virgin olive oil, high in mono-unsaturated fat and a good source of antioxidants, is one of the few oils that can be eaten without chemical processing. Olive oil has been found to be beneficial in its cancer prevention compounds for almost all cancers. It is believed that olive oil acts as an anti-inflammatory food. Inflammation is connected to the presence of cancer in the body. The UU researchers add more evidence to the body of knowledge about the cancer preventative benefits of olive oil.
