A recent study conducted by Italian scientists at the National Research Center (CNR) has shed light on the beneficial effects of hydroxytyrosol (HTyr), a phenolic compound found in extra virgin olive oil. The study found that HTyr not only protects brain functions from aging but also has the potential to restore the vitality of brain neurons and even multiply them. The antioxidant activity of hydroxytyrosol acts as a cleaning treatment for nervous cells, washing away debris found in neuron cells.

The researchers discovered that HTyr impacts brain activities beyond its well-known neuroprotective effects, showing promise for reversing some of the most known effects of brain aging. The study revealed that administering the compound in the elderly may reverse neuronal aging by combining the protection of active neurons with the generation of new ones. In aged brains, the compound stimulates the multiplication of stem cells from which new neurons are generated.

The research suggests a potential new series of products that could help relieve the reduction of cognitive abilities in aging humans. Hydroxytyrosol is not only found in extra virgin olive oil but also in the byproducts of olive oil production. Scientists have urged for the upgrading of production procedures to obtain hydroxytyrosol while reducing the environmental impact of their activities. Further research will verify the behavioral effects of the increased neuron production and the extent of HTyr treatment of neural aging.

Sources: Faseb Journal, Olive Oil Times, CNR Press Release