摘要：Circumstantial evidence supports the association between
chronic diseases and changes in life style: less
physical activity, increased stress and increased consumption
of processed and calorie-condensed food
strongly contribute to the development of degenerative
diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
Furthermore, a growing body of evidence supports
the concept that several factors can influence the quality
and quantity of human life and many studies have
demonstrated a strong association between the duration
of the life and a healthy lifestyle. In this regard, the
adherence to a Mediterranean-type diet, characterized
by higher intake of fruit, vegetables, fish and olive oil,
appears to be a suitable way to achieve health benefits.
Polyphenols are the most abundant antioxidants in the
Mediterranean diet, and their total dietary intake, could
be as higher as 1g/d, although it is not yet well determined
and strongly dependent on social and individual
habits. Despite they are widely distributed in plants,
their healthy effects have been studied by nutritionists
only recently, and current evidence strongly supports a
contribution of polyphenols to the prevention of cardiovascular
diseases. Of note, the capability of flavonoids,
a class of polyphenols, in reducing the risk of cardiovascular
disease occurrence has been recognized by the
World Health Organization. It is now well established
that some polyphenols, such as anthocyanins and those
contained in extra virgin olive oil, do improve healthy
status as it has been largely demonstrated through epidemiological
and animal studies as well as clinical trials.
