Olive Leaf Extract: The Mediterranean Diet Secret

The Mediterranean diet is consistently ranked as one of the healthiest diets in the United States by U.S. News & World Report — and for plenty of good reasons.

Studies have linked the Mediterranean diet to heart benefits, a lower risk of diabetes and even a prolonged life. Another recent study found the diet helped older adults fight the brain aging process.

The Mediterranean diet is based on eating lots of produce, fish, lean meat, whole grains and healthy fats such as olive oil.

Many experts believe the secret behind the diet’s life-prolonging health benefits is that last part — the olive oil. It’s rich in polyphenols, which are full of antioxidants, have anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties, may help prevent some diseases, and may even improve brain function. Oleuropein, a powerful polyphenol found in olive leafs, has been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. It also may increase the body’s production of thermogenin, a compound that helps the body burn fat.  

“In my professional opinion, it’s the olive oil, and the powerful polyphenols it contains,” Dr. Steven Gundry, Los Angeles-based cardiac surgeon, medical innovator and author, said of the Mediterranean diet.

You would have to eat a lot of olive oil daily to reap all of its benefits, but there are other options out there. Dr. Gundry — the doctor behind Vital Reds, one of the most popular energy supplements on the market — recently created a new supplement called the Mediterranean Olive Leaf Extract, which is formulated to support a healthy heart, promote mental sharpness and manage blood lipids.

“I’ve spent over 30 years in the medical field, and I put everything I’ve learned as a medical researcher and a heart surgeon into this formula,” Dr. Gundry said of his new supplement.

Although some people might find it difficult to stick to a strict Mediterranean diet, the simplicity of a daily supplement could make things a whole lot easier.