Hydroxytyrosol is one of nature’s most refined antioxidants, prized for its presence in the olive fruit and celebrated across centuries of Mediterranean living. Small in size but remarkably potent, this phenolic compound helps the body manage oxidative stress at the cellular level, particularly in the cardiovascular system. Modern research now echoes what tradition always hinted at: hydroxytyrosol protects what matters most, starting with your heart and your cells' delicate lipid membranes.
The essentials
What it is: Hydroxytyrosol is a polyphenol naturally occurring in olives and olive oil.
Why it matters: Hydroxytyrosol and its derivatives contribute to the protection of blood lipids from oxidative stress, an EFSA-authorised health claim when consumed in qualifying amounts*.
Life stage relevance: Oxidative stress increases with age and lifestyle factors, making antioxidants like hydroxytyrosol part of the discussion on maintaining vitality and cardiovascular balance.
Where is hydroxytyrosol found?
Hydroxytyrosol is naturally present in the olive fruit and its oil, though the amount depends greatly on factors such as ripeness, olive variety, and processing. Extra virgin olive oil typically provides between 2–15 mg of hydroxytyrosol and related compounds per 20 g (around two tablespoons). This variability helps explain why the Mediterranean diet is linked with cardiovascular balance, but in practice, intake from olives or oil alone is inconsistent, and often below the levels explored in clinical research.
What to look for in a hydroxytyrosol formula
The form matters. Hydroxytyrosol should come from olive fruit to align with the authorised EU health claim*. Consistency and concentration are key, only standardised extracts can guarantee effective daily intake.
Equally important is synergy. Hydroxytyrosol complements other nutrients that support antioxidant defences and cardiovascular health. Selenium and zinc help protect cells from oxidative stress, while chromium contributes to normal blood glucose levels. Together, these nutrients support a more holistic foundation for vitality.
Hytolive™ – Pure hydroxytyrosol from the olive heart of Spain
For centuries, the olive tree has been a symbol of vitality and longevity. Scientists now know why: hydroxytyrosol, one of nature’s most powerful polyphenols, plays a unique role in protecting blood lipids from oxidative damage, a key step in cardiovascular and metabolic health.
From this insight, Hytolive™ was developed: a patented, solvent-free olive fruit extract produced by Alvinesa Natural Ingredients in Spain. By upcycling olive by-products into high-value actives, Alvinesa ensures full traceability, zero waste, and sustainable production. Hytolive™ is standardised at 10% hydroxytyrosol, delivering pure, concentrated efficacy from the olive fruit.
Clinically proven efficacy
The science behind Hytolive™ is robust, anchored in randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled human trials. In a 12-week study conducted at the Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro (Madrid, Spain), daily supplementation with 150 mg Hytolive™ (15 mg hydroxytyrosol) delivered measurable improvements:
- Oxidised LDL: significantly reduced by around 20% vs placebo, demonstrating protection of vascular integrity.
- Antioxidant capacity: systemic antioxidant status improved, reinforcing resilience against oxidative stress.
- Inflammation: key markers such as hs-CRP and IL-6 decreased, showing a meaningful anti-inflammatory effect.
- Metabolic profile: favourable shifts were observed in glycaemic control and lipid parameters, supporting long-term cardiometabolic balance.
These outcomes confirm that hydroxytyrosol, in a clinically validated form like Hytolive™, is not only bioavailable but also highly effective at nutritional doses.
Key takeaways
- Hydroxytyrosol is a rare olive polyphenol, studied for its role in protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidative stress.
- EFSA recognises 5 mg/day as sufficient — Hytolive™ delivers 15 mg/day, providing three times the validated threshold.
- Clinically studied results: in a published randomised, placebo-controlled trial, daily supplementation with Hytolive™ (15 mg hydroxytyrosol) was associated with ~20% lower oxidised LDL vs placebo, together with improvements in antioxidant capacity, inflammation markers, and metabolic balance.
- Sustainably produced in Spain by Alvinesa Natural Ingredients, through a circular, solvent-free process that upcycles olive by-products into high-value actives.
Explore The Peak performance formula
Hytolive™ olive fruit extract, naturally rich in hydroxytyrosol, is included in our Peak Performance formula at 150 mg per daily dose, providing 15 mg of hydroxytyrosol (two softgels).
References
Moratilla-Rivera, I., Pérez-Jiménez, J., Ramos, S., Portillo, M. P., Martín, M. Á., & Mateos, R. (2025). Hydroxytyrosol supplementation improves antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status in individuals with overweight and prediabetes: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel trial. Clinical Nutrition. Sep 2025;52:17-26. doi:10.1016/j.clnu.2025.07.006. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40690822/
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority).5 mg/day of hydroxytyrosol contributes to the protection of blood lipids from oxidative stress (EFSA Journal 2011;9(4):2033). https://doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2011.2033
* EU-authorised claims can be used only when a product delivers the qualifying dose (≥5 mg hydroxytyrosol and derivatives/day).
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🇪🇸 Hytolive™ is a proprietary olive fruit extract, naturally rich in hydroxytyrosol, manufactured in Spain by Alvinesa Natural Ingredients. Alvinesa specialises in upcycling olive and grape industry by-products into natural, traceable actives under strict sustainability standards — using water-based extraction, zero waste processes, renewable energy, and offering clinically validated ingredients for food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic markets.
Disclaimer: This article is intended solely for general informational purposes. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor should it be interpreted as making health claims. The content summarises ingredient characteristics based on publicly available research. Individual experiences may differ. For any questions regarding supplementation, nutrition, or personal health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions.
