Is Olive Oil Anti-Inflammatory?

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Anti-Inflammatory Power, Heritage, and Longevity Science

This article explores the anti-inflammatory properties of certified organic extra virgin cold-pressed olive oil from Nadin produced by Opg. Ivan Atelj under the brand ' Dalmatian Underdog ', Zadar County, Dalmatia, Croatia. Drawing from archaeological research, longevity science (e.g., Dr. David Sinclair, Bryan Johnson), and the nutritional profile of high-polyphenol olive oil, we present an evidence-based case for daily consumption of this "liquid gold" as both a culinary and wellness essential.

Cold-Pressed Olive Oil from Nadin, Dalmatia:

Olive Oil and Inflammation: Scientific Evidence

High-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Key components include:

  • Oleocanthal: A phenolic compound with COX-inhibiting properties, mimicking the effects of ibuprofen.

  • Monounsaturated fats: Especially oleic acid, linked to reduced systemic inflammation.

  • Antioxidant polyphenols: Combat oxidative stress, a root cause of chronic diseases.

olive orchard, olives croatia, olive trees zadar

Scientific studies confirm EVOO's role in:

  • Cardiovascular protection

  • Neuroprotection against cognitive decline

  • Reduced biomarkers of inflammation (e.g., IL-6, TNF-\u03b1)

Nadin, Zadar County: An Archaeobotanical Legacy

olive oil vases nadin zadar croatia

Remains of ancient olive oil production in Nadin, Zadar since Roman Times

Excavations at Gradina - Nadin have uncovered layers of uninterrupted habitation from the 11th century BCE through Late Antiquity. Findings include:

  • Roman-era necropolises and Iron Age burial complexes

  • Material evidence of early olive and vine cultivation

  • Confirmed continuity of agricultural practices through isotopic and archaeobotanical analyses

Today, the same terroir sustains organic olive groves, preserving biodiversity and ancient cultivation methods.

Defining Quality: Cold-Pressed, Extra Virgin, Organic

The most health-beneficial olive oils share three key characteristics:

  • Cold-Pressed: Maintains polyphenol integrity by avoiding heat

  • Extra Virgin: Ensures low acidity (<0.8%) and minimal processing

  • Organic: Free from pesticides; nurtures soil and ecological balance

In Nadin, the brand " Dalmatian Underdog " olives are hand-picked and cold-pressed within hours of harvest. The resulting EVOO features:

  • High oleic acid concentration

  • Elevated polyphenol content (>400 mg/kg)

  • Fresh, grassy aroma and peppery finish indicative of oleocanthal presence

Longevity Insights: Dr. David Sinclair and Bryan Johnson

Dr. David Sinclair (Harvard Medical School):

  • Advocates mixing 1g resveratrol with EVOO for enhanced absorption

  • Highlights EVOO's role in activating sirtuins and preserving mitochondrial function

Bryan Johnson (Blueprint Protocol):

  • Uses polyphenol-rich EVOO (>400 ppm) as a daily longevity input

  • Tracks cardiovascular, metabolic, and cognitive biomarkers

  • Attributes consistent health score improvements to EVOO consumption

olives zadar croatia

Oleocanthal: Natural Anti-Inflammatory Agent

Research validates oleocanthal's pharmacological activity:

  • COX enzyme inhibition

  • Reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines

  • Potential neuroprotective and anti-carcinogenic effects

Approximately 50g/day of high-oleocanthal EVOO provides a food-based anti-inflammatory comparable to low-dose NSAIDs.

Practical Integration: EVOO in Daily Life

Recommendations:

  1. Take 1-2 tbsp daily, ideally in the morning

  2. Mix with resveratrol/NMN as part of longevity supplementation

  3. Use as finishing oil to retain phenolic content (avoid heating)

  4. Choose dark ceramic, glass or aluminum packaging, store below 20\u00b0C

Tasting Notes and Consumer Guidelines

Nadin -Dalmatian Underdog EVOO Profile:

  • Aroma: Fresh-cut grass, green almond

  • Flavor: Bitterness and pungency from early-harvest phenolics

  • Ideal Pairings: Salads, vegetables, yogurt, seafood

Buyer Tips:

  • Look for early harvest, single-estate labels

  • Confirm organic certification and harvest date

  • Prioritize polyphenol levels \u2265 400 mg/kg

dalmatian underdog olive oil bottle , olive oil zadar, olive oil nadin, olive oil croatia, olive branch

Certified organic/bio extra virgin olive form Nadin’s olive orchard.

Conclusion

Certified organic extra virgin olive oil from Nadin, Dalmatia is:

  • A proven anti-inflammatory superfood

  • Rooted in 3,000+ years of Mediterranean tradition

  • Supported by modern scientific frameworks for longevity

Its role in health optimization—from Dr. Sinclair's NAD+ protocols to Johnson's data-driven diet—is both practical and profound. Whether drizzled, spooned, or blended with supplements, Dalmatian olive oil offers bioactive nourishment from a landscape rich in historical and biochemical vitality.

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