Xanthohumol’s mechanisms of action come from its extraordinarily high content of phenolic compounds. Recent studies show that regular consumption of these compounds can, in the long term, reduce the risk of many chronic health disorders such as cardiovascular disease (19). Phenols, and in particular, xanthohumol, exert modulatory effects in cells by interacting with a wide range of molecular targets of signalling pathways (mitogen-activated protein kinase, protein kinase C, detoxifying antioxidant enzymes …) (20). These effects translate into increased expression of certain cytoprotective genes, regulation of the normal cell cycle, inhibition of growth, an increase in apoptosis, inhibition of angiogenesis, as well as suppression of oxidative stress, a state of imbalance which impairs the structural and functional integrity of cell membranes (21). The role played by oxidative stress in the development of chronic diseases is now widely documented in the scientific literature (22). Phenolic compounds can also influence the composition of gut microbiota and re-establish intestinal barrier function, thus modulating the chronic inflammation associated with metabolic diseases (23). Following ingestion, phenolic compounds such as xanthohumol are absorbed, distributed to various tissues and then metabolised by the liver. A proportion undergo partial conversion by gut flora. (24).

Olive Leaf Extract a natural-source dietary supplement produced from olive leaves. It contains a very high level of oleuropein, a bioactive phytonutrient specific to the olive tree, which helps control blood lipids and prevent carbohydrate absorption.

It is aimed at anyone who wants to improve their cardiovascular health and maintain the integrity of their blood vessels. Individuals with the following risk factors are likely to be particularly interested in this product:

• Those who are overweight.
• Those with type 2 diabetes.
• Those prone to circulation problems.
• Those with high blood pressure.
• Those who are stressed.
• Those who have hypercholesterolemia.

Xanthohumol’s mechanisms of action come from its extraordinarily high content of phenolic compounds. Recent studies show that regular consumption of these compounds can, in the long term, reduce the risk of many chronic health disorders such as cardiovascular disease (19). Phenols, and in particular, xanthohumol, exert modulatory effects in cells by interacting with a wide range of molecular targets of signalling pathways (mitogen-activated protein kinase, protein kinase C, detoxifying antioxidant enzymes …) (20). These effects translate into increased expression of certain cytoprotective genes, regulation of the normal cell cycle, inhibition of growth, an increase in apoptosis, inhibition of angiogenesis, as well as suppression of oxidative stress, a state of imbalance which impairs the structural and functional integrity of cell membranes (21). The role played by oxidative stress in the development of chronic diseases is now widely documented in the scientific literature (22). Phenolic compounds can also influence the composition of gut microbiota and re-establish intestinal barrier function, thus modulating the chronic inflammation associated with metabolic diseases (23).

Following ingestion, phenolic compounds such as xanthohumol are absorbed, distributed to various tissues and then metabolised by the liver. A proportion undergo partial conversion by gut flora. (24).

The effect of Olive Leaf Extract capsules has been directly measured in three clinical trials (22).

1) One year’s supplementation with 250mg a day

Following 12 months’ daily supplementation by subjects with elevated cholesterol levels, researchers recorded:

• A 20% reduction in ‘bad’ LDL-cholesterol.
• A 13% increase in ‘good’ HDL-cholesterol.
• A 10% decrease in total cholesterol and a 5% decrease in triglycerides.

2) Four weeks’ supplementation with 250mg a day

In overweight subjects, there was a significant improvement over four weeks in the expected ratio of coronary risk as compared with placebo. A clear decrease in triglycerides was observed.

3) Eight weeks’ supplementation with 250mg a day

The third study examined the ability of Olive Leaf Extract to reduce oxidative stress. Results showed that daily supplementation with 250mg reduced levels of MDA (malondialdehyde) by almost a third, a urinary marker of oxidative stress.

Why use extracts of olive leaf rather than olives?

Studies suggest that the leaves and fruit are equally rich in oleuropein (23), but the olive leaf is considered a more renewable natural source for extraction (24). Hence its use in Olive Leaf Extract, and its ingredient Olécol®.

The recommended dose is two capsules a day, to be taken with meals.

If you want to boost its effects on sleep, it’s worth knowing that hops acts synergistically with other supplements available to buy at Supersmart such as valerian (found in the natural formulation Advanced Sleep Formula). For improving hormone balance, it’s better to combine it with an extract of pumpkin seeds.

Buy Xanthohumol capsules to support cellular health.

To further enhance the efficacy of Olive Leaf Extract, you can adopt these additional measures throughout the supplementation period:

1. Significantly increase your intake of fruit, vegetables, nuts and whole grains.
2. Make liberal use of herbs, spices, garlic and onion.
3. Only use olive oil for dressings and rapeseed oil for cooking.
4. Eat at least one yoghurt a day (preferably sheep’s milk).
5. Limit your intake of poultry and red meat, and instead choose fish and seafood whenever possible.
6. Be physically active every day (go for a walk after a meal, take part in sports, do some exercises …).
7. Take a daily multivitamin supplement.

These measures are part of the Mediterranean diet which is based on the long-term food habits of Mediterranean populations. They are a good accompaniment to supplementing with Olive Leaf Extract though not essential for obtaining the benefits of this product.

This product’s capsules are made of pullulan, a natural polysaccharide obtained by fermenting tapioca or corn. Pullulan contains no animal ingredients and provides an excellent barrier to oxygen, helping to preserve the integrity of the capsule’s ingredients. It is also an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials.

This product’s capsules are composed of HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), a plant substance derived from cellulose. HPMC is widely used for medicines and dietary supplements. It contains no animal ingredients, is recognised as safe by health authorities and is considered more sustainable than synthetic alternatives.