Extra virgin olive oil as a functional food for athletes: recovery, health, and performance

Abstract

Extra virgin olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, has been recognized for its richness in bioactive compounds, particularly polyphenols, that have conferred many health benefits. This narrative review examined the role of olive oil in mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation, with a specific focus on its impact on athletes and sports performance. The phenolic compounds in olive oil, including hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, oleocanthal, and oleuropein, were found to show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties, making olive oil a potential dietary intervention for enhancing recovery and resilience in athletes. Studies reviewed have highlighted extra virgin olive oil for its ability to protect red blood cells from oxidative damage, preserve cardiovascular function, and improve muscle recovery. Olive oil supplementation has also been linked to reduced markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, improved aerobic ability, and enhanced muscle strength in both recreational and professional athletes. Mechanistically, its polyphenols have been shown to modulate mitochondrial function, improve antioxidant enzyme activity, and promote metabolic efficiency during physical activity. Despite promising evidence, variability in study methodologies, dosages, and populations has limited definitive conclusions. Additionally, current evidence suggests that while olive oil may contribute to endurance and recovery, further investigation is needed to determine its specific role in different sports disciplines. While olive oil has shown potential in endurance and recovery contexts, its acute performanceenhancing effects have still been less clear. Future research should aim at standardizing protocols and exploring the long-term impact of olive oil supplementation on diverse athletic populations. This review underscores the potential of olive oil as a natural and sustainable strategy in sports nutrition, supporting physical performance and recovery while contributing to overall health.