Italy is among the world's largest producers and exporters of olive oil. The olive harvest (la raccolta delle olive) is currently under way, and, after last year's unfortunate season, 2015 seems to be yielding a much more positive balance for Italian producers. But what's so special about this natural food product? Well, for years, scientists and nutritionists have been telling us about the health benefits of having a diet rich in olive oil.

We already know about its health maintaining properties, and the cardiovascular and digestive benefits of what is now referred to as the 'Mediterranean diet'. Now, Italian researchers from the University of Florence have found that one of the polyphenols contained in extra virgin olive oil may prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease; meanwhile, French scientists are also researching the theory that olive oil can lead to improved cognitive function, especially among older adults.

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Source: http://www.italymagazine.com/