Benefits of virgin olive oil for people with Down syndrome

People with Down syndrome are exposed to age-related cognitive decline and synaptic dysfunction. Therefore, researchers working with the Alzheimer’s Center at Temple (ACT) recently investigated the effect of extra virgin olive oil on brain health and memory to determine whether consumption of extra virgin olive oil, a main component of the Mediterranean diet, could delay cognitive decline in people with Down syndrome. (DS).

Down syndrome is known as the most common form of physical and intellectual disability resulting from genetic factors. While recent medical advances have helped extend life expectancy from about 40 years to an average of 60 years, the development of Alzheimer’s disease in people with Down syndrome has become more common than ever.

Studies have shown that by the age of 40, about 50% of people with Down syndrome suffer from significant learning and memory problems that are associated with impairment similar to Alzheimer’s disease.

Using a mouse model of Down syndrome, the researchers added extra virgin olive oil to their diet for five months, after which they tested them for learning and memory impairment. Synaptic function was then measured, and brain tissue was assessed for biomarkers of inflammation.

The researchers found that mice that received extra virgin olive oil showed significant improvements in spatial learning and memory.

In addition, treated mice showed improved synaptic function, and extra virgin olive oil reduced levels of several inflammatory biomarkers.

“Giving extra virgin olive oil to a model of Down syndrome mouse has beneficial effects on memory impairment, synaptic function deficits, and neuroinflammation. “Our results provide additional support for the potential therapeutic effects of extra virgin olive oil in individuals with Down syndrome.”

Source: Medical Express