From the Guidelines
High polyphenol olive oil appears to inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome, as evidenced by the anti-inflammatory properties of its compounds, such as hydroxytyrosol and oleocanthal, which can suppress NLRP3 inflammasome activation through multiple mechanisms, including reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting NF-κB signaling 1. The inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation by high polyphenol olive oil is supported by studies on polyphenols, which have been shown to modulate gut microbiota and improve features of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) through GM modifications and modulation of the gut–liver axis 1. Key mechanisms by which high polyphenol olive oil may inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation include:
- Acting as antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress that can trigger NLRP3
- Inhibiting NF-κB signaling, which is involved in NLRP3 priming
- Directly interfering with NLRP3 assembly or activation To potentially benefit from this effect, consume 1-2 tablespoons of high-quality, extra virgin olive oil daily, looking for oils labeled as "high polyphenol" or those with a peppery taste, indicating higher polyphenol content, and incorporate it into salad dressings, drizzle over cooked vegetables, or use it for low-heat cooking 1. While olive oil can be part of a healthy diet, it's essential to note that it's calorie-dense, so adjust your overall calorie intake accordingly if adding olive oil to your diet, and more human research is needed to fully understand the clinical implications of NLRP3 inhibition by high polyphenol olive oil.
From the Research
High Polyphenol Olive Oil and NLRP3 Inflammasome
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that high polyphenol olive oil inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, the studies suggest that high polyphenol olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which may be related to its potential to inhibit inflammatory pathways 2, 4, 5, 6.
- The anti-inflammatory effects of high polyphenol olive oil are attributed to its polyphenol content, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in various studies 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Some studies have investigated the effects of olive oil on inflammatory bowel disease and atherosclerosis, and found that it may have beneficial effects in reducing inflammation and improving antioxidant status 3, 5, 6.
- Further research is needed to determine the specific effects of high polyphenol olive oil on the NLRP3 inflammasome and its potential therapeutic applications 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.