123 Virgin Olive Oil Benefits tective body response in the area affected by a harmful stimulus. Systemic inflammation reflects an imbalance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory processes, this can lead to harmful effects in organs and is associated with disease risk (cardiovascular, metabolic, cancer). Physical activity can promote muscle inflammation (local) as a response to a muscle lesion, thus reflecting coordination between the immune system and the damaged tissue. This local inflammation, which can produce pain immediately after exercise or 1-2 days later (late-onset muscle pain), favours muscle recovery. In contrast, chronic systemic inflammation can damage muscle regenerative capacity and function. Moderate physical activity has a beneficial effect on systemic inflammation improving health status and reducing inflammation-related illness risk. Within this context, therefore, olive oil by reducing systemic inflammation could have beneficial effects on muscle activity. A large body of evidence exists concerning the anti-inflammatory effects of olive oil compounds. Concerning local inflammation, such effects are usually generated during long-term or very intense exercise. Although few studies have assessed the effect of olive oil on exercise-related inflammation, its consumption during the week prior to a race has been reported to reduce muscle damage and cardiac stress in marathon runners (Figure 9.2). Figure 9.2. Effects of extra virgin olive oil on physical activity. EVOO, within the frame of a healthy dietary pattern, can improve physical activity performance through its beneficial effects on cardiovascular system, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Beneficial effect on cardiovascular system Extra virgin olive oil within the frame of a healthy dietary pattern Possible effects on muscle fibre anti-inflammatory effects antioxidant activity …..? Oleic acid in membranes Polyphenols and other antioxidants Mitochondria
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