Extra virgin olive oil can help preserve cognitive function, and it’s thanks to polyphenols.

These plant compounds have antioxidants and have strong anti-inflammatory properties.

But how do you know if you’re picking a high-polyphenol option?

Olives picked earlier in the harvest (still green!) retain more polyphenols. Certain varieties also have more polyphenols: Cortaina, Koroneiki, Chetoui, and Mission.

I put five high-polyphenol olive oils to the test, and found an option to please any plate.

• An organic olive oil duo for drizzling and cooking
• An affordable, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
• A robust, luxurious olive oil with max polyphenols
• A bold option made exclusively with woman-farmed, Tunisian olives

The winner: Kosterina’s Olive Oil Duo! I love their light peppery flavor and versatility.

Pain is a clear indicator that something is wrong. But according to pain scientist, Rachel Zoffness, Ph.D., “Pain is never purely biomedical. It is biopsychosocial.” What this means is that your thoughts and perception can either dull or amplify pain volume. Zoffness dives into even greater detail on the mbg podcast.

+ Find relief

• Train your brain to work as a painkiller
• How to build a personal pain recipe
• This can make chronic pain harder to live with
• 3 nutrients that help reduce joint pain

• What being a late eater reveals for your metabolism
• Is your liver ignoring a key blood sugar hormone?
• 10 of the best carbs to eat for better blood sugar
• An overlooked plant compound that lowers diabetes risk