OLIVE OILS AND HEALTH 108 8.1. Introduction Ageing can be defined as an endogenous process, given that it originates in the human body, and a universal one, because it affects all species. It is characterised by a loss of body functions which coincides with the decline of fertility. Ageing is heterogeneous in the sense that its commencement and progression differ among individuals. Whilst it is linked with a considerable increase of some conditions (ageing-associated diseases) and mortality it should be noted that ageing itself it is not an illness. It is a physiological stage, a normal healthy phase during the individual’s lifespan. Ageing-associated diseases range from cardiovascular, certain cancers, metabolic disturban- ces such as type 2 diabetes, and neurodegenerative pathologies, for instance, Alzheimer disease. The presence of these illnesses hinders the study of the ageing process because it is difficult to discern whether changes (of cells, organs, and systems) occur because of ageing itself or an associated disease. What is the relevance of studying ageing? And, within it, what is the role of olive oil ingestion? The first question can be answered by the increasing age of the population as demonstrated by several worldwide studies. For various decades, the rise in the number of elderly individuals has been reflected in an inverted population pyramid in which the base (young individuals) is narrowing, and the apex (elderly ones) is broadening (Figure 8.1). This growing phenomenon represents a challenge because older individuals require more social and healthcare support. Research into the causes of ageing, and particularly promoting healthy ageing, with a less dependent and pathology-free elderly population, is a main goal for society. As a popular proverb says, “we are what we eat”, and this can be literally applied when dealing with human health and especially ageing. Healthy dietary habits promote healthy ageing. A correct dietary pattern is a balanced one with the proper food in the proper quantity. Within this context, virgin olive oil has shown, through a body of research, its ability to be an excellent ally. In this chapter, we present data from several scientific studies on the issue.
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