According to a report by BioMed, breakfasts rich in virgin olive oil affect gene expression in a way that may explain the health benefits associated with this diet. In total, 98 genes were identified which were differentially expressed depending on the trial participants’ breakfast type. Several of the repressed genes are known to be involved in pro-inflammatory processes.
This study shows that intake of virgin olive oil based breakfast can affect the expression of several genes involved in switching on the process of inflammation, in particular the activity of white blood cells to a less deleterious inflammatory profile. These results provide at least partial evidence for reduced risk of cardiovascular disease observed in Mediterranean countries, where virgin olive oil represents a main source of dietary fat. Admittedly, other lifestyle factors are also likely to contribute to lowered risk of cardiovascular disease in this region.
This study shows that intake of virgin olive oil based breakfast can affect the expression of several genes involved in switching on the process of inflammation, in particular the activity of white blood cells to a less deleterious inflammatory profile. These results provide at least partial evidence for reduced risk of cardiovascular disease observed in Mediterranean countries, where virgin olive oil represents a main source of dietary fat. Admittedly, other lifestyle factors are also likely to contribute to lowered risk of cardiovascular disease in this region.
Has a sudden onset.
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A fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid.
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Disease of the heart and blood vessels, usually due to atherosclerosis.
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The basic unit of all living organisms.
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One of the three main food constituents (with carbohydrate and protein), and the main form in which energy is stored in the body.
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The basic unit of genetic material carried on chromosomes.
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The body’s response to injury.
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Relating to blood vessels.
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